http://www.auduboninstitute.org/gulf-oil-spill-resourcesAt of of the links is this message from the Audubon Pres.
I'm sure many of us have been watching the events in the Gulf of Mexico over the past few weeks with a growing concern for our native wildlife. Audubon Nature Institute is proud to be part of the incredible team working around the clock to stop the flow of oil from Deepwater Horizon and to reduce its impact on our fragile coast. Audubon Aquatics Center's "emergency room" stands ready to accept marine mammals and sea turtles. We just received a shipment of additional medical equipment, supplied by BP, to assist with animal care. Our staff is well-prepared and on high alert to meet the unseen challenges that await.
Officials have reported that 87 sea turtles and 25 dolphins have been found dead along the Gulf coast. Two of the turtles and two of the dolphins were sent to Audubon for necropsies. Additional testing is under way to determine the cause of their deaths, which initially do not seem to be spill related. In the meantime, NOAA has strengthened its efforts to monitor effects of the spill on wildlife and is currently conducting bottlenose dolphin studies in Mississippi and Louisiana.
So many people care deeply about Louisiana's wetlands habitat and wildlife and want to make a difference today. One of these individuals is Ian Somerhalder, Mandeville native and star of the CW network's "The Vampire Diaries." He grew up in the great outdoors of south Louisiana and understands the importance of preserving our marshes, beaches and bayous. He recently shot a public service announcement at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas to raise awareness and funds. The spot will be distributed around the country in the weeks ahead.
Another individual making a positive difference is Lauren Thom, owner of local tee-shirt business Fleurty Girl. Lauren designed the Rescue Me tee, with net proceeds going to Audubon's coordination of LMMSTRP. To date, over 1,300 shirts have been sold, generating over $13,000 to support our rescue team.
Audubon applauds Ian's and Lauren's leadership--as we applaud all members of the Audubon family. Your dedication to wildlife and the natural world inspires us during this crisis, and we thank you for your support.
Look for another update on Audubon's oil spill response efforts in the next few days. For related links and ways to get involved, please visit our resources page.
Sincerely,
L. Ronald Forman
President and CEO
Audubon Nature Institute