Threat to Mute Swans and other wildlife after oil spills into Cleethorpes Country Park

Important for wildlife - Cleethorpes Country Park

INQUIRIES are underway after an incident of of oil contamination was this morning reported at Cleethorpes Country Park.

At least two Mute Swan are said to have had their  plumage oiled, and other wildlife, including Great Crested Grebes and fish, are also likely to  have been affected.

It is understood the oil spilled into the Buck Beck but some may also have entered the lake.

To help control any spread, drainage officers  placed absorbent booms in the river to soak up the remaining oil.

A spokesperson for North East Lincolnshire Council  said: "Officers are also working with the Environment Agency to understand how best to remove as much oil as possible."

NELC's portfolio holder for the environment, Cllr Henry Hudson, says: "Not only is what has happened  disrespecting this beautiful open space, but it is also putting the creatures who live there in danger.

"If anyone has any information on this incident we would greatly appreciate their coming forward."

In the meantime, Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue have been seeking to capture the swans  time for the nesting season.

                                 

One of the contaminated birds - photo Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue

A Mute Swan with her brood on the country park's lake in a previous year