Conservation organisation, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) has been picking up birds, since a fishing vessel (FV Western Star) sank off St Francis Bay on Monday last week.
A fire broke out while the ship was anchored near Paradise Beach.
The ship belongs to TSI Central Station.
About 11 crew members were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported.
But, the incident left fuel, oil, and cargo spills.
SANCCOB said birds may appear wet, shiny, or waxy, not black with oil. The organisation advices people not to even attempt to catch or wash them yourself.
South Africa has entered into an agreement with TSI Central Station, from China.
Picture: Supplied