Dozens of birds suffer after 100 gallons of oil spill in Boston

In the aftermath of an oil spill in Boston's Muddy River, staff at the New England Wildlife Center have been engaged in the arduous task of cleaning up to 43 ducks and geese affected by the incident. The center’s staff has dedicated themselves to this critical work, pumping in hours of effort, round the clock, to ensure the recovery of these birds after approximately 100 gallons of home heating oil was released into the river. The oil spill occurred when a storm drain reportedly released the oil, with the precise circumstances surrounding the spill still under investigation by local authorities. The cleanup process is labor-intensive, with each bird taking over an hour to cleanse effectively. Utilizing hot water and dish soap, the staff compares the cleaning process to a spa day for the animals, highlighting the dedication and care involved in restoring the birds to a healthy state. Once cleaned, the birds will remain under observation for several weeks to ensure their health and readiness before they can be safely returned to the wild. Zak Merz, the CEO of the New England Wildlife Center, discussed the broader implications of the spill, noting that it reflects a persistent issue tied to the reliance on petroleum products and the consequences of commercial activity in the region. He emphasized the center's commitment to being prepared for such disasters, indicating that oil spills are unfortunately an expected risk in New England due to industrial activity. The Wildlife Center's collaborative efforts with agencies like MassDEP and Mass Wildlife exemplify their proactive approach in dealing with wildlife emergencies, showcasing their readiness to respond effectively to incidents that threaten animal life. Despite the hard work required in the aftermath of this oil spill, the New England Wildlife Center’s team takes pride in their mission to rehabilitate and recover affected wildlife. Merz expressed that witnessing the transformation of the birds from a state of suffering to one of cleanliness and health is incredibly rewarding. The successful recovery of these animals stands as a testament to the dedication of the staff and the importance of wildlife preservation efforts in the face of ecological disasters.