Only one oil spill can cause enormous devastation on wildlife and habitats, but seas all over the world take in millions of gallons of oil every year. The long-term effect of such a disaster is the subject of much debate among scientists. Some argue that animals and birds are harmed many years after the event, while other people believe wildlife is more resilient. For example, according to research, otters and other animals are still suffering nearly 12 years after the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska, which is considered one of the worst in terms of damage to the environment.

Oil affects wildlife by coating their bodies with a thick layer, more and more over time and adheres to their skin or fur even more. Floating over the water surface, birds and marine mammals are caught, some fish even being attracted by the spill because it looks like food.

Every year at least half a million water birds die from encounters with spilt oil, according to Jay Holcomb, executive director of the International Bird Rescue Research Center in Fairfield, California. For a bird to survive such a spill, rescuers must arrive quickly, with water and food. The animals are placed in plastic tubs, being washed with warm water and mild soap. For the eyes and ears, a water pick or toothbrush is used to avoid damaging sensitive organs.

The birds are literally shampooed. After this they are left to bathe to put their feathers in order. They secrete and rub on their feathers natural oil that acts as a conditioner. When the birds regain a natural weight and blood values, they are released back into the wild. Human efforts are considerable, preventing the death of tens of animals. For example, in June 2000, when 1,300 tons of oil was spilled in the Atlantic Ocean, 90 percent of the rescued birds survived. Today the African penguin population is 19% more numerous due to the human efforts, according to University of Cape Town researchers who monitor the birds.