Oiled Wildlife Assessment

Expert wildlife assessment, when and where you need it most

The Oiled Wildlife Assessment service from the Global Oiled Wildlife Response System (GOWRS) is a specialised assessment team that can be deployed at any time. This team offers a four-day on-site assessment to evaluate the wildlife response needs, capabilities, and the resources available locally. The team’s objective is to provide our members with critical insights into the feasibility and scope of a full-scale wildlife response.  

Each team member brings expertise in specific areas to cover all aspects of wildlife response: 

• Wildlife Operations and Planning Specialist - works within the member's Incident Management System (IMS), coordinates with the client’s Wildlife Branch, and collates findings for decision-making. 
• Incident-Specific Specialist - provides specific expertise especially in areas like like animal taxa, local language knowledge, direct experience in the response area, or veterinary considerations. 
• Rehabilitation/Facility Specialist - evaluates the availability and suitability of local rehabilitation facilities and resources and identifies any permits or infrastructure requirements. 
• Field/Capture Specialist - confirms species at risk, engages in real-time field reconnaissance, and advises on capture, deterrence, and hazing methods where needed.

Assessment team activities during the four-day assessment phase include providing recommendations and reasonings for the most effective response options. The assessment team will, if required, act as the first response personnel, and will remain on site for up to two weeks as necessary to support a smooth transition to the operational response organisation. 

Why assessment is crucial in wildlife response

In the event of an oil spill, immediate action is essential to minimise harm to affected wildlife. Where local response capability is limited or where the incident size may overwhelm local resources, the oiled wildlife assessment service provides a thorough evaluation of the situation, allowing informed decisions to be made quickly and effectively. This initial assessment phase is critical because: 

• It informs the feasibility of a full response - by assessing potential wildlife impacts, local capacities, and logistical needs, the GOWRS assessment team provides a clear roadmap for scaling response efforts, if a response is deemed feasible. 

• It supports integration with local resources - understanding the capabilities of local responders and facilities enables seamless coordination, reducing the time needed to launch a full response. 

• It helps prioritise resources effectively - the assessment allows responders to identify where resources should be directed first, helping to ensure efficient use of personnel and equipment. 

• It supports better outcomes for wildlife - with specialist advice and real-time data, organisations can recommend strategies that improve the survival and recovery chances of impacted wildlife. 

By leveraging the GOWRS assessment team, our members gain immediate access to a global pool of expertise, supporting well-coordinated, effective wildlife response efforts delivered to high professional standards.