April News - Anniversary of BP Disaster

Apr 1, 20129 min read

Deviation Actions

Published: Apr 1, 2012

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April 21
Yesterday marked the two-year anniversary of the BP Oil Spill. However, despite the time that has passed, the repercussions of the oil spill are still being felt by wildlife at all levels of the food chain, as well as by humans. While it was not intentional, our Themed Week, Birds and Sea, is well-timed. It showcases some of the beautiful species that we can work together to protect. Sea birds are affected by the oil spill because the oil soaks into their feathers, taking away warmth and buoyancy. In addition, fish, crustaceans, and other sea life covered with oil are not healthy to eat. There is even evidence that the oil and the toxins used to clean up the oil are mutagenic, causing freakish seafood like eyeless shrimp to show up.

Here are some simple but effective methods you could implement to help prevent another disaster. They are also great resolutions for Earth Day, 4/22.

Educate a friend about the importance of predators (like pelicans or gulls) in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
Show somebody the beauty of marine life, whether it be the coral reef, sea birds, or anything in between.
Resolve to use less plastic (an oil byproduct); invest in reusable products like Sigg bottles, menstrual cups, and cloth grocery bags.
Try to walk, bike, bus, or even carpool more, instead of driving.
Follow along with the Audubon Society's campaign: Oil and Birds Don't Mix. Today's mission: Take a kid birding.

They might feel like small steps, but a little education can go a long way.

Some species present along the Gulf of Mexico:

Believe you can and you're halfway there. by ahley

April 15
Whoops! I've been so busy that I forgot to remind everyone that our Themed Week, Birds and Sea, starts tomorrow! The theme was chosen by our "Emotions" contest winner Ptitenanette.
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Don't forget to check out our BOTM: Flycatchers

Congratulations to two of our members for their recent DDs!

April 1
Happy April, everyone! In honor of our new feline overlords, we have decided to change the purpose of Birds-Club. Starting April 2nd, we will only accept cat photography and art!

Our April Cat of the Month will be Flycatchers, suggested by our contest winner FuzzyCreaturePainter. You will be asked to submit pictures of cats chasing flies.

Our Themed Week, chosen by our contest winner Ptitenanette, will be "Cats and Sea." You will have to work really hard for this one, since cats don't like water!

The top faves from last month's Themed Week, "Birds and Flowers," are so pretty and floral!