Many of the above biological problems are under study here and in Europe, including the following.
• The effect of ingested oil on the mucosal transport mechanism of marine birds. To use seawater, birds must be able to transport sodium ions through the gut and expel the excess salt through the nasal passages. Oil can block the mucosal ion transport mechanism, resulting in dehydration and eventual death.
• The development of a successful program of hormonal and electrolyte therapy to restore osmotic balance and the functioning of the salt glands in contaminated seabirds.
• Treatment and prevention of aspergillosis (fungus infection); septic arthritis or "bumble-foot" (joint capsule infections); breast sores (especially in seabirds confined on hard surfaces); eye lesions (caused by ammonia fumes from unsanitary pens); dehydration and hypoglycemia; lipid pneumonia; and bacterial infections.
• Treatment of stress after capture, including perfection of handling and cleaning techniques, administration of proper steroids, crowding, light, temperature, noise levels, and so on.
• Development of proper nutritional regimes for certain species and feeding techniques to eliminate forced feeding.
• The establishment of criteria for confident recognition of terminal pathological conditions in oiled birds.
• Determination of optimum density of confined birds to insure healthy conditions and adequate room for preening.
• Determination of proper time and conditions for reintroduction of the birds into their native habitat.