Environment pollution

The waterfowl on Heaton Park boating lake had to be rescued from the water and taken to a centre for urgent treatment after a reported oil spill on the lake coated their feathers.
Kirklees Valley Wildlife Rescue shared the news on Facebook on Sunday (October 11) confirming that they had been at the park on Wednesday and Thursday (October 7 and 8) this week to rescue the animals.
The Heaton Park and Hall Facebook account confirmed that the charity had 'temporarily rehomed' the birds due to a report of a contaminant in the water.
"Our Estates team are taking advice from the Environment Agency to address this issue," they said. "Please remember to stay safe around our water sites whilst enjoying the Park."
In an update on Sunday (October 11), the rescue centre shared photos of the birds being rescued, with the tragic update that one had to be put to sleep.
"An oil spill at Heaton Park boating lake left several birds in need of urgent help," they said in the post.
"From Wednesday morning through to Thursday, our rescue team were involved in responding to an oil spill at Heaton Park boating lake, working to rescue affected waterbirds and get them the specialist care they desperately needed.
"Oil contamination can have devastating consequences for waterbirds. When oil coats their feathers, it damages their natural waterproofing and insulation, leaving them vulnerable to hypothermia, exhaustion and potentially life-threatening complications.
"The rescued birds were transferred to RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre, where they could receive specialist treatment and rehabilitation. Sadly, despite the efforts involved, one bird had to be put to sleep.
"Incidents like this are a stark reminder of just how vulnerable our wildlife is to pollution, and how quickly an otherwise peaceful habitat can become a dangerous environment for the animals that depend on it.
"We'd like to thank everyone involved in the rescue efforts and the team at Stapeley Grange for taking these birds into their care.
"If you'd like to support our rescue work, please consider making a donation. Your kindness helps us continue being there for wildlife in need."