Flight for Survival Oil and Feathers Don't Mix Objectives Students identify and describe the way oil spills can negatively affect birds in their environment. Oil that coats feathers can reduce a bird's ability to protect itself from the cold and water.
Crude oil is toxic if ingested.
Organizations such as Busch Gardens and SeaWorld routinely work with animals that have been involved in oil-related accidents. Through their Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Program, they have successfully treated and released thousands of animals back into the natural environment. Using a magnifying glass, examine a feather. Sketch how the feather is shaped. Dip the feather in water for a couple of minutes.