GULF OF MEXICO - The oil spill-related damage to the environment was chilling on East Grand Terre Island along the Louisiana coast, where workers found birds coated in thick, black goo. Images shot by an Associated Press photographer show Brown pelicans drenched in thick oil, struggling and flailing in the surf.

Officials say 60 birds, including 41 pelicans, were coated with oil when strong winds blew a heavy slick from the Gulf of Mexico spill to the rookery.

The birds were being rescued and taken to a center for cleaning at Fort Jackson.

Note: Video contains disturbing images.