Environmental authorities urgently search for oil spill after spate of 'oiled' pelicans

Friday, 16 June 2023 10:03

By Monique Welhan

One of the oiled pelicans. PIC: WA Wildlife

Several seabirds drenched in oil have been found between Baldivis and Furnissdale prompting an urgent plea for locals to keep an eye out for any oil spills in their area.

At least 11 pelicans and one spoonbill have been affected with the The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation currently investigating the source of the spill.

The oiled birds have been found at multiple locations including Tonkin Drive in Furnissdale, Wellard Wetlands in Baldivis and Tern Island and Lake Richmond in Safety Bay.

The Western Australia Seabird Rescue have been working closely with WA Wildlife staff to wash several pelicans with at least a dozen more still yet to be caught.

PIC: WA Wildlife/Facebook

There is concerns affected pelicans may die if they are not washed as the oil destroys their natural waterproofing potentially causing them to become waterlogged.

"The department has been investigating potential locations where the impacted sea birds are known to frequent, but no related oil spills have been identified or reported to Pollution Watch," a DWER spokesperson said.

"The department is asking for the public to please be alert for the presence of any oil or hydrocarbon spills within marine or any other aquatic environments or areas and if safe, to take photographs."

An online fundraiser has raised over $3000 for the oiled pelicans.

Spills should be reported to the department’s Pollution Watch Hotline on 1300 784 782, or email pollutionwatch@dwer.wa.gov.au.