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Wildlife Rehabilitation

The effects of oil
Sequential Procedures

It is important to underline that wildlife rehabilitation should be performed only under the guidance of experienced professionals.

We are pleased that Simple Green has granted us permission to present the below protocol for oiled bird and mammal rehabilitation, which they have received from one of their customers. Further information: www.simplegreen.com

The effects of oil

1. Externally, oil mats the feathers of avians and the fur of mammals and drastically reduces the insulating and waterproofing properties of both. The risk of mortalities from exposure is therefore increased.
   It follows that resultant flightless or reluctance to remain in cold water leads to predation exposure.
2. It may be impossible for the victim to find uncontaminated food, either because of flightlessness, the inability to remain afloat or endure cold water temperatures. Additionally, oil clogs the nares (nostrils) and mouth, and causes irritation to the eyes.
3. Internally, oil causes ulceration and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, and toxins may be absorbed through the skin and the pancreas. Serious liver and kidney damage has been documented. Susceptibility to secondary infections is increased and oil aspiration pneumonia is common.

Sequential Procedures

1. Once captured, the victims must be examined and a system for the identification of individuals must be established in order that the patient progress can be monitored.
2. Wipe eyes and inside of mouth with gauze pads, then flush thoroughly with water. Intravenous fluids should be administered to severely dehydrated animals and birds; for those less severely dehydrated, the gastrointestinal tract should be flushed by tubing. Small doses of Pepto-Bismal should be given to sooth the irritated gut.
3. Then, place victims in a warm, quiet area and allow them to stabilize for 8-24 hours before the actual washing process is commenced.
   Nutrients are added to tubing solution and victims are tube-fed every 4-6 hours.
4. Large tubs should be lined with towels and partially filled with 104 deg. F (40 deg. C) water; oiled victims should be thoroughly wetted.
   Using the small spray bottle provided by Simple Green, spray Simple Green directly onto fur or feathers, taking care to saturate those areas which are especially grimey.
5. Allow several minutes for the emulsification process to get underway, then begin stroking the feathers or fur in the direction of growth. The subject should be removed from the tub when the water gets dirty and the entire washing process repeated. An oiled victim may require three or more tub washings.
6. The animal or bird must be completely rinsed if it is to be rehabilitated. Any detergent residue can impede waterproofing. Rinse until diamond-like beads of water roll freely from the feathers.
7. When dry, access to a small pool should be given. Through preening and grooming, water proofing will be restored.
8. Release can be expected to take place 4-5 days after washing.

The complete cleaning of a single bird or mammal may require the diligent efforts of three to five people, and as much as 150 gallons (570 liters) of water. The process can take up to an hour.   

(Note from the oil spill web: If you wonder why we have adopted this article from a commercial body, the explanation is, that we have contacted a number of wildlife rehabilitation organizations in the hope that they would provide this info. However, without any luck) (Back)

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