Plastic in Pelagic Birds

In the summer of 2003 a large number of Northern Fulmars began washing ashore. They were either very ill or were already dead. Many more died in spite of our best efforts to save them. Autopsies found crops, stomachs, and entire digestive tracts stuffed full of small bits of plastic. Due to this tragedy, WRCNC has begun contributing to research on the problem of plastic ingestion by pelagic birds. 

One thing we found is that we're not the only ones being confronted with the grim evidence of this problem. Here is a link showing samples of plastic ingestion from around the world. As you can see this is a huge problem which is just being recognized.

As the information becomes available, we will try to keep you appraised of our role in this research. In the meantime, you can read a lot about the problem of plastics in the ocean ecosystem at the Website of:

The Algalita Marine Research Organization.

"Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect." — Chief Seattle.

The WRCNC is committed to educating children and the general public about the plight of many wild animals and birds, and of their role and ours in the ecosystems we share. We do this through education programs in the schools, through outreach to community organizations, and through this website.

Educating our children

Community outreach

Bobcat release pics

In addition to treating injured wildlife at the WRCNC , our Community programs offer volunteer opportunities, educational programs and research in conservation for the community.