Oil tank vandalism results in waterfowl park ‘nightmare’
An oil spill caused by vandalism of a nearby home heating tank has killed 13 birds at Broughshane Waterfowl Park in County Antrim. The park has closed while a recovery effort continues, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
More than 20 birds were taken to the USPCA for specialist treatment after the Northern Ireland Environment Agency traced the kerosene to the tank and deployed oil-absorbing booms. Rescuers have bathed and treated the affected geese, ducks and swans, but some had ingested too much oil; the park’s chairman expects it could take weeks to return to normal.
In short
- Oil from a vandalised heating tank polluted the park’s pond.
- Thirteen birds have died and more are receiving care.
- The park is closed during clean-up and recovery.
Explained simply
Broughshane Waterfowl Park is a local park in County Antrim where geese, ducks and swans live around ponds. Kerosene is a fuel commonly used in home heating tanks; if it leaks into water, it can coat birds’ feathers and harm them if they swallow it while trying to clean themselves.
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency investigates pollution and can arrange measures such as floating booms to contain oil. The USPCA provides animal welfare and rescue services, including specialist care for wildlife affected by spills. Police investigate suspected vandalism and ask the public for information that may help identify those responsible.