The Cause

Posted by liaso (Bay Area, United States) on 29 November 2007 in Animal & Insect.

To me, the cause the clean-up crews are fighting for are the wildlife affected by the oil spill. The birds are discussed the most in the media; their casualties are so high compared to the sea mammals and their deaths are immediately visible unlike the underwater sea life. I have a strong visceral reaction to the pictures in the paper of the birds covered in oil. I can't prevent the tears that immediately appear or the deep sadness at the loss of innocent life.

I think that is why this picture brings me such mixed emotions. The colors of sunset and the variety of birds at the park brought me joy. I saw the birds feeding and was glad they were alive, back in the water. But even in this joy, I knew that the animals they are feeding on could be contaminated. These birds are still in danger, even though it's not a visible threat at the moment.

But still, I can't help but be happy to see such a pretty sight. I saw at least four different types of birds in the water at Eastshore on Monday. I'm afraid I am not good at identifying birds, so I do not know the specific type of the one pictured here.