[violaine]

you are welcome. here is what i've learned from emails, talking with other wildlife bird rehabbers, and attending webcast overviews: unless someone has bird handling experience/is already licensed, working on a state or federal permit [and the latter are becoming more difficult to come by- you could check out the NWRA link, which should list information about licensing], the professionals/paraprofessionals will go in first. in fact, the very first question in order to actually receive oil spill work certification for handling birds [exam covers wildlife rehabbing questions/safety/osha] - is whether or not you are licensed.

this spill is so massive, i cannot conceive of knowledgeable volunteers being turned away to help wildlife in peril, if a shortage of help arises. experience in other areas besides WR could be taken into consideration. also, a few of the working conditions listed, like the types of oil, smells- oil itself/birds, protective gear, stress, heat, and so on, is something to seriously think about, while the desire to help may be strong, for individuals who have asthma, and/or other health issues, not a good scenario.