Swans and other water birds are returning home to a park pond after a dangerous oil spill. Broughshane Waterfowl Park in Northern Ireland closed after oil entered the water and killed 13 birds. Now, the park has reopened, and rescued birds are starting to come back.
The problem began when someone damaged a heating oil tank near the park. About 200 liters of oil leaked into the pond. More than 20 birds were taken to an animal welfare center for urgent care. Helpers washed and treated ducks, geese, and swans that were covered in oil.
Clean-up teams have now removed most of the oil from the water. About 10 to 12 birds have returned so far, including two black swans. Park leader Gary Hayward said the birds are lucky to be healthy. Some pens remain closed while workers clean the rest of the oil from the edges of the pond.