Two beloved swans and more than ten ducks die after oil contamination at Broughshane Waterfowl Park
Tuesday 27 October 2026
Two beloved Trumpeter swans and more than ten ducks have died following a serious oil contamination incident at Broughshane Waterfowl Park, leaving volunteers devastated as they fight to save the remaining affected birds.
The Broughshane Environment, Waterfowl and Wildlife Trust (BEWWT) confirmed the losses on Monday (26 October), four days after heating oil entered the park's waters following what the charity described as an act of vandalism involving a heating oil tank in the village.
The popular community attraction remains temporarily closed while efforts continue to remove the contamination and care for surviving birds, some of which are receiving round-the-clock veterinary attention.
Flooding left birds unable to escape
According to the community Trust, the incident occurred on Thursday (22 October), following flooding the previous evening which had already left bird enclosures submerged.
The combination of flooding and the oil contamination meant protective oil booms were unable to prevent the substance entering the park's waters through the drainage system.
With their pens already flooded, many of the birds had nowhere to escape as the oil spread.
A volunteer arriving at the park on Thursday morning discovered birds heavily contaminated with oil and in a critical condition, prompting an urgent rescue operation.
Despite difficult conditions and ongoing stormy weather, volunteers worked to recover as many birds as possible.
The three pens immediately affected contained five swans, along with numerous ducks and geese. Rescued birds were transferred to the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) for urgent veterinary care.
Two Trumpeter swans among the losses
In an emotional statement issued on Monday, the Trust confirmed that more than ten ducks and two of its Trumpeter swans had died.
The charity said:
“Sadly, we have now lost ten plus ducks and, most devastatingly, our two beloved Trumpeter swans.”
The statement continued:
“We are absolutely heartbroken. Our park, which was once filled with healthy, beautiful birds and so much life, is now facing the devastating consequences of this incident. It is incredibly difficult to comprehend that such suffering and loss have occurred as a result of an act of vandalism.”
The full extent of the losses remains uncertain, with other birds still undergoing treatment.
The Trust added:
“Our thoughts remain with the birds still receiving care, and we are desperately hoping that the remainder of our flock will pull through. We ask you to please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Veterinary team praised for emergency response
In an earlier update issued over the weekend, the Trust revealed that 20 birds had been affected and were receiving 24-hour care and attention from the USPCA.
Volunteers also highlighted the emergency assistance provided by Clare Vets, particularly Jenni and her team, who took in the park's black swan and eight ducks.
The veterinary team washed and treated the birds, keeping them warm, dry and safe overnight, without charging the charity.
The Trust said their immediate intervention had made an enormous difference and that, without their support, more birds might have been lost.
Volunteers also thanked a member of the public who witnessed the situation and went to James McNeill's to purchase a large supply of towels for the rescue effort.
The charity described the gesture as an act of kindness that would not be forgotten.
Park closed as oil removal continues
The Waterfowl Park was temporarily closed after contamination affected the lower section of its pond.
In its weekend notice, the Trust said the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) was due to return on Monday to continue extracting and removing oil from the water.
No reopening date has been confirmed, and the Trust has not provided a timetable for when the affected areas will be safe for the birds or visitors.
The circumstances surrounding the reported vandalism, including who was responsible, have not been established in the information released by the charity.
Community rallies around devastated volunteers
BEWWT is a community charity whose volunteers maintain the park and care for its wildlife, making the loss of so many birds particularly painful for those involved.
The Trust has received donations, messages of support and offers of assistance since the contamination was discovered.
In its statement, volunteers said:
“To everyone who has contacted us, donated, shared our appeals or offered words of support, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your kindness means more to our volunteers than words can express.”
The charity also acknowledged the strong connection between the park and the wider Broughshane community.
“BEWWT is a community charity, and our park is loved by so many. We know how much it means to you because you have continued to stand beside us through the good times and the difficult ones.”
For now, the priority remains the welfare of the surviving birds and the removal of oil from the park's waters.
Further updates are expected from the Trust as veterinary treatment and the clean-up continue, with volunteers hoping to prevent any further losses among a flock already devastated by the incident.
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