slick entered the north-west flowing Benguela Current. Weather conditions proved to be conducive to spill response and helped prevent a major onshore environmental disaster. Approximately of diluted chemical dispersant and of dispersant concentrate were sprayed at the edge of the slick, preventing it from coming within of the shore. On August 10, the slick was almost offshore as the bow of the tanker was being towed out to sea. By August 12, over 200 oiled birds had been recovered "with feathers glued with oil" and taken to conservation centers in Cape Town. Many more were expected to be received. Environmental impact The accident area is both ecologically and economically sensitive, rich in flora and fauna. It is also home to a large seabird population. Half of South African lobster and fish landings are caught within this zone, which is also an important nursery area for many fish species. The known environmental consequences of the spill were considered small. About 1,500 gannets that were gathered on a nearby island in preparation for breeding season were oiled. Some seals surfaced during dispersant spraying but are not believed to have been harmed. "Black rain" of oil droplets fell immediately to the east of the spill during the first 24 hours on wheat-growing and sheep-grazing fields, but no long-term damage was recorded. The impact on local fish stocks was considered minimal. According to tests conducted on sediment and water samples and plankton trawls, no abnormal presence of hydrocarbons was detected. Notes References 1983 in the environment Oil spills in South Africa Environment of South Africa 1983 in South Africa Maritime incidents in South Africa Maritime incidents in 1983