The GSPCA says the guillemot may be the first casualty of old oil being dredged up by stormy seas.
Guernsey's Animal Shelter is looking after its first oiled seabird following an extended period of stormy weather that has whipped up old oil deposits on the sea bed.
The guillemot was rescued from the Cup and Saucer area on the west coast yesterday (27 October).
GSPCA Manager, Steve Byrne, says they often get call outs after stormy weather:
"This guillemot is the first we have admitted following Storm Austen, but experience tells us there may well be more birds affected over the coming days.
"Oil contamination can have devastating consequences for seabirds as not only does it affect their ability to keep warm and find food, but the birds often ingest the oil while preening, which can cause serious illness and even death."
Steve says anyone who sees an oiled seabird should contact the GSPCA:
"Please do not attempt to catch the bird yourself, as this can sometimes frighten it back into the sea and make rescue much more difficult.
"Our team is prepared to respond and provide the specialist care these birds need."
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