IFAW’s Penguin Network Releases First Birds

“Since May more than 60 penguins have been cared for, but historically, late July is the peak of the oiled penguin season, as it is related to their migration, and the expectation is that there will be many more oiled penguins in the weeks to come,” said Dr. Valeria Ruoppolo, who manages the IFAW Penguin Network.

Every year penguins are found oiled and suffering due to illegal bilge dumping along the coasts of Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. IFAW’s Emergency Relief Team formed the network with eight other wildlife organizations in these countries to rescue and rehabilitate the injured birds.

Through providing emergency response, management, protocols and funding in South America during the past four years, IFAW has assisted with the rescue and rehabilitation of more than 1,000 birds and developed the IFAW Penguin Network.

Amongst its work the network funds beach patrols that rescue not only seabirds, but also sea turtles and marine mammals, and funds some equipment.