News

Many people will enjoy a bracing walk at some point over the Christmas break to work off their dinner, but wildlife volunteers are asking that if your walk takes in the coast, you keep an eye out for any oiled seabirds which may come ashore.

The oil out at sea circulates year after year and quite often stormy weather brings the oil up to the surface.

During the winter months deep sea birds like guillemots and razorbills migrate through the English Channel and some of the juveniles even winter in the Channel.

As they dive for food they get covered in the sticky oil and have to paddle to shore to clean themselves.

Experts are warning not to take oiled seabirds home to wash them.

They say it is more important that they receive medication as quick as possible and washing should only be done once they are treated and fit enough to withstand the stress of it.