RSPB expressed concerns about the potential impact of the North Sea tanker crash will have on The Wash in Lincolnshire

Experts are waiting to see if the collision of two tankers in the North Sea will affect an internationally important wetland.

The RSPB is extremely concerned about The Wash and the important populations of seabird which live there as a result of the collision of two tanks in the Humber Estuary on Monday.

Marine investigators are looking into what caused the collision of the Solong and Stena International - which was carrying jet fuel for the US military.

The Wash has been designated great protections as an area of special scientific interest and part of the proposed East Coast Flyway World Heritage Site world heritage site.

Richard Barnard, RSPB Area Manager, said that a potential pollution incident is the last thing that under pressure populations of seabirds need.

He said: “Our first thoughts are with the crew of the ships and those involved in the current rescue operation. The RSPB is also extremely concerned about the potential impact of this tanker collision on the marine environment. Much will depend on the type of fuel on board and sea currents.

“The whole area around the collision is important for birds, home to internationally important populations of seabirds.

“To the south is the Greater Wash Special Protection area, a vital location for wintering Red-throated Divers and Common Scoters. To the north and west the RSPB’s seabird nature reserve at Bempton Cliffs.

“We also need to consider any potential impacts on our estuaries, such as the Humber and the Wash. Oil directly impacts seabirds, coating their feathers and reducing their waterproofing and buoyancy, which can lead to drowning, or it can poison them through ingestion.

“Overall, the RSPB is concerned about the current resilience of seabird populations. Many seabird populations are facing long term declines and were hard hit by avian flu, and most have yet to see any recovery from this.

“There is still a question mark over the restriction of fishing for sandeels, a vital food source for many seabirds. Added to this is the ongoing pressure on our marine environment from development such as large-scale wind farms especially off the east coast.

“A potential pollution incident is the last thing these birds need.”