Broughshane Waterfowl Park in County Antrim has reopened following a deliberate vandalism incident that resulted in the death of 13 birds and forced the temporary closure of the popular attraction. According to BBC News, a nearby home heating oil tank was deliberately damaged, causing heating oil to spill into the park's pond and contaminating the water.
The incident occurred when a volunteer detected the smell of kerosene and discovered black swans covered in oil. More than 20 birds were transported to the USPCA's headquarters in Newry for urgent specialist care following the contamination. The park, which houses 120 collection birds in addition to wild birds that visit the site, was forced to close while recovery efforts began.
How did the oil reach the pond?
The vandalism of the heating oil tank caused excess oil to flow into storm drains in the village. According to local reporting, flooding the evening before the incident had submerged enclosures at the park, and the oil entered through the drainage system, which limited the effectiveness of protective booms that were deployed to contain the spill.
What treatment did the affected birds receive?
USPCA wildlife supervisor Siobhan Hawthorn oversaw the rescue operation and confirmed that affected birds were bathed and given charcoal to help counter toxins they may have ingested. Hawthorn warned that birds can hide signs of illness, meaning some may require ongoing monitoring even after appearing to recover. The park's management expressed gratitude to the USPCA for the care provided during the emergency response.
What is the current status of the pond?
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) was first alerted to the incident on Thursday 22 October and has been involved in removing the oil waste. According to BBC reporting, the waterway has improved but further cleanup work will continue as needed. Many of the rescued birds cannot be returned to the park until the pond is fully clean and safe for habitation.
The park's management paid tribute to the support received from the public during the recovery process.
It's another positive step forward for our park, and we couldn't have got here without you.The attraction, which has been in existence for 13 years and is well known for its variety of waterfowl species, remains partially closed as work continues to address the oil contamination and a number of pens remain out of bounds.
What happens next?
Police were appealing for information about the vandalism incident, according to reporting updated on 5 November. The NIEA indicated that the waterway had improved but further cleanup work would continue as needed to ensure the environment is safe for the birds' return. The park's management has not yet announced a full reopening date, though the initial closure period has ended and limited operations have resumed.
