According to the Edmonton Journal, 1,606 ducks and water fowl died as a result of oily residue on the tailings pond for Syncrude’s oil sands development in Alberta, Canada. The initial tally of affected birds was estimated at just 400 to 500 birds, a number that was determined by inaccurate survey methods that the company is now seeking to improve.Syncrude has pledged to take stronger measures to protect migrating birds, including using sound cannons and scarecrows fitted with reflectors to deter birds from landing in the tailings ponds. Wildlife advisors and sophisticated radar equipment will be used to track bird migrations and adjust deterrent techniques as needed.
Oil sands development also affects a range of other migrating birds, including many species of songbirds. To learn more about how this industry affects Canada's birds and what you can do to help, visit the Boreal Songbird Initiative.
Oil Spill Mallard
Photo © Just Chaos
Comments