The catastrophic oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico caused by the April 20, 2010 explosion of an offshore oil rig has put local economies, wildlife and the Gulf's delicate coastal ecosystem at risk. As of May 7, the oil slick from the BP gusher in the Gulf was beginning to reach critical bird breeding habitat on shore. Many other animals are being affected as well. This could be one of the worst environmental disasters in our nation's history. For the latest information on impacts to wildlife and rescue efforts and how YOU can help, go to the National Wildlife Federation website at: