Oil-covered Birds and Wildlife

If you find a bird or other animal covered in oil, Washington state authorities ask that you not try to rescue it yourself. Instead, follow these instructions.

Two steps

First, note the time and location of your discovery and estimate the number of birds of animals affected.

Next, phone the Emergency Management Division (EMD) of the Washington Military Department at: 1-800-258-5990.

What happens next

Your call to EMD sets in motion a chain of actions by the responsible agencies. EMD alerts the Department of Ecology to the possibility of an oil spill. Ecology in turn notifies the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. WDFW then mobilizes staff and volunteers who are trained in rescuing oiled birds and animals.

For more background, visit the WDFW page on Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation.

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The mission of Eastside Audubon is to protect, preserve and enhance natural ecosystems and our communities for the benefit of birds, other wildlife and people.