Birds return to waterfowl park after oil vandalism

Image source, Broughshane Waterfowl ParkImage caption, Several birds were injured after the incidentResident birds have returned to Broughshane Waterfowl Park after an oil spill which caused the death of 13 of the flock.The popular attraction in County Antrim was forced to close after a nearby home heating oil tank was vandalised, causing the oil spill into the pond.In a post on social media, the attraction confirmed that work is still underway to address the oil contamination and that a number of pens remain out of bounds.More than 20 birds were transported to the USPCA's headquarters for urgent specialist care following the incident.The park, which was home to 120 birds, has since reopened.Image source, Broughshane Waterfowl ParkImage caption, More than 20 birds were treated by a vet and transported to the USCPA in NewryThe Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) was first alerted to the incident on Thursday 22 October and have been involved in removing the oil waste.The park's management paid thanks to the USPCA for looking after the birds."We are truly grateful for everything you have done."It also paid tribute to the support received from the public."It's another positive step forward for our park, and we couldn't have got here without you."Image source, Broughshane Waterfowl ParkImage caption, The pond has become well known for its variety of waterfowl and has been in existence for 13 years Siobhan Hawthorn, wildlife supervisor at the USPCA, has been a key part of the rescue operation.More on this story