When Oil Gets Spilled, What Happens With Wildlife? Oil Spill Response in CA

Golden Gate Audubon Speaker Series presents
Becky Elias, Emily Whitmer, and Kyra Mills-Parker
Oiled Wildlife Care Network, Davis, CA

The Oiled Wildlife Care Network (OWCN) is a world-leader in oiled wildlife response. The network is comprised of 29 member organizations in California including scientific and non-profit organizations, world-class aquaria, and rehabilitation groups. The OWCN was established in 1994 by the Department of Fish and Game’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response, and is administered by UC Davis Wildlife Health Center within the School of Veterinary Medicine. This evening we will present an overview of the effects of oil on wildlife, the OWCN’s role in oil spill response in California, and steps of an oiled wildlife response.

Becky Elias received her graduate degree in Wildlife Ecology from Washington State University. During oil spill response, Becky coordinates the volunteer efforts by OWCN members. Emily Whitmer, a registered veterinary technician, has worked with a wide variety of marine wildlife in rehabilitation hospitals and research settings in California and beyond. Emily provides essential support of wildlife care and rehabilitation during response. Kyra Mills-Parker received her graduate degree from the University of California, Irvine. During oil spills, Kyra organizes and leads field teams to collect and transport oiled wildlife to care facilities.