Three swans were left coated in diesel fuel after a fuel spill at Carshalton Ponds, believed to have been caused by a vehicle fire early this morning.
The incident prompted a multi-agency rescue effort led by Wallington Animal Rescue (WAR) and the Swan Sanctuary, who worked tirelessly to save the affected birds. Two of the swans were captured and taken in for urgent treatment.
Rescue Efforts
Volunteers from WAR were alerted to the situation at 9am on Monday and spent several hours at the scene capturing the contaminated birds.
Niel Blackwell from Wallington Animal Rescue explained:
“We’ve managed to catch two swans, and they were transferred to the Swan Sanctuary.
“The problem with diesel is that it’s much thinner than oil and penetrates feathers more easily, reaching the skin and causing serious harm.
“Unfortunately, there were more birds we couldn’t rescue, including a couple of coots still on the water. Catching them is incredibly difficult.”
The Swan Sanctuary confirmed the rescued swans are currently in quarantine under bird flu protocols and will require several washes to remove the diesel. A spokesperson noted:
“The contamination has left them no longer waterproof or able to keep warm. Thankfully, they are otherwise fit and healthy. Once cleaned and waterproof again, and once the pond is safe, we will aim to return them home.”
Environmental Concerns
The Environment Agency was alerted to the spill by the council and has confirmed that the source of the diesel spill has been identified. Officials assured the public that no further contamination is expected.
A council spokesperson added:
“We would like to thank the member of the public who raised concerns. The Environment Agency is working to minimise the environmental impact on the various habitats in the Ponds.”
While the diesel has mostly dissipated into the River Wandle, the long-term environmental impact remains unclear. Thames Water was also seen taking measures to address the spill.
Vehicle Fire Linked to Spill
The diesel spill is believed to have originated from a vehicle fire on Pound Street, reported at 1:14am on Monday morning.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed:
“Two vans and part of a one-storey office building were alight when crews from Wallington and Sutton fire stations arrived. The fire was extinguished, and no injuries were reported.”
Call for Public Vigilance
The Environment Agency has urged anyone with information about the incident or concerns about pollution to contact their 24-hour incident hotline: 0800 807060.
Meanwhile, rescuers continue to monitor the remaining birds at Carshalton Ponds, ready to step in if further intervention is needed.
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