Thirteen birds have died after home heating oil spilled into a pond at Broughshane Waterfowl Park in County Antrim. The spill was caused by vandalism to a nearby oil tank.

The incident was reported to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency on Thursday 22 October. Inspectors deployed oil absorbent booms to limit the spread of contamination. The substance was identified as kerosene from a domestic tank.

More than 20 birds were taken to the USPCA base in Newry for urgent care. They included swans, geese and ducks. Some were bathed twice to remove oil. They also received charcoal to help counter ingested toxins.

Gary Hayward, chairman of Broughshane Environment Wildfowl and Wildlife Trust, said the park is home to 120 collection birds alongside wild birds. He said a volunteer noticed the smell of kerosene on the Thursday morning and saw black swans covered in oil.

Siobhan Hawthorn, wildlife supervisor at the USPCA, said staff have worked under emotional and mental strain. She said the birds hide illness well, so recovery is uncertain. She noted many of the birds are non-native species and cannot be returned until the pond is fully cleaned.

The park remains closed. Hayward said it could take weeks before it returns to normal. He urged the public to be aware of the consequences of vandalising fuel tanks.

Police are appealing for information.