being affected by it. >> reporter: this barrier island is so unique it's been able to maintain its natural habitat. even wild horses roam freely here. it's also home to many other bird species which could be affected by the gulf oil spill. it'll take at least a year to find out the oil's impact on these feathered families. the american bird conservancy says the problem could take a global toll. >> it's really birds from all over north america and birds which do move on to south america as well. so it's a real mix. but we're talking about millions of individual birds. >> we have to be optimistic and hope it'll turn out okay for these guys. >> reporter: for a chance to thrive in this place of protection. sandra endo, cnn, assateague island, maryland. so the federal government has a deceptive yet clever plan to help save migratory birds from an oily doom. dave white heads the agriculture department's natural resources conner investigation service. dave, good to see you. thanks for taking the time this holiday weekend to be with us.