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Oil Slick Threatens South Africa's Coastal Wildlife

2/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

An alarming oil slick has contaminated 40km of South Africa's West Coast beaches, endangering seabird colonies and the vital Olifant’s River estuary. Since last Thursday, dedicated clean-up teams have been working tirelessly to mitigate the damage. The likely culprit? The wreck of the MV Ultra Galaxy, which unleashed over 500 tons of fuel last year. Thankfully, no oiled birds have been spotted so far.

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Story summary

An alarming oil slick has contaminated 40km of South Africa's West Coast beaches, endangering seabird colonies and the vital Olifant’s River estuary. Since last Thursday, dedicated clean-up teams have been working tirelessly to mitigate the damage. The likely culprit? The wreck of the MV Ultra Galaxy, which unleashed over 500 tons of fuel last year. Thankfully, no oiled birds have been spotted so far.