Home / Environment / Mysterious Orange Oil Douses Isle of Man Gulls
Mysterious Orange Oil Douses Isle of Man Gulls
2 Jul
Summary
- Thirteen gulls found covered in an unknown orange substance in Peel.
- The recurring oil pollution issue in Peel has been ongoing since 2022.
- Authorities are investigating the source of the oil polluting the birds.
A troubling situation has emerged on the Isle of Man, where numerous herring gulls have been found covered in an unidentified orange, fish-oil-scented substance. Thirteen birds were discovered near Mill Road in Peel, with many more reportedly spotted.
Conservationists from Manx Wild Bird Aid have expressed grave concern, noting this recurring problem has persisted since 2022. They emphasize the detrimental impact on the island's biosphere status and wildlife.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is aware and actively investigating the source of the pollution. They have pledged to prevent future occurrences.
The collected birds are undergoing cleaning, but several partially oiled individuals escaped retrieval. The substance poses a lethal threat, hindering insulation and leading to hypothermia, drowning, or starvation of chicks due to parental loss.
