After MA Oil Spill, Cape Cod Staffers Giving Birds New Life

CAPE COD, MA — The effects of an oil spill in the Muddy River are still being felt, especially by the local wildlife.

On Dec. 8, local and state officials responded to the Muddy River in Brookline to investigate "reports of a discharge of an oil-like substance into the Muddy River," Brookline officials said, in a statement.

Though officials said there was no threat to public safety, it became clear quickly that wildlife in the area was in danger.

The New England Wildlife Center was notified immediately and, since that time, have been caring for up to at least 40 birds.

Officials with the organization believe it was heating oil that spilled into the river and coated many of the birds they've since rescued.

With that comes an intensive washing process, which officials said takes roughly one hour per bird.

Once that process is completed and all of the oil is removed, they will begin to re-waterproof their feathers in a freshwater pool at the Cape Cod area hospital.

More than 13 birds have been cleaned over the last few days, but the team at the New England Wildlife Center said keeping a full stock of supplies has been challenging given the quantity of animals needing care.

The organization has an Amazon wishlist available for those who would like to donate.