Select Species at Risk

The Gulf of Mexico is home to many species that are currently at risk due to the oil spill.  The following maps overlay the oil slick with the habitats of several of these sensitive marine species.  Click on the links (PDF) to view the maps.

Bluefin Tuna

Deep-Sea Communities

Red Snapper

Sharks

Gulf Coast Hurricanes

Forecasters expect an above average 2010 Atlantic hurricane season with a 44 percent chance for a strong hurricane hitting the Gulf Coast this year. A hurricane could dilute the oil or it could stir up more oil and drive it towards land. The map here depicts the paths of four large hurricanes that passed through the Gulf in 2004 and 2005.  Click on the link (PDF) to view the map.

Hurricanes