An amphibious self-contained oil spill absorbing machine having a chassis (1) supported and propelled on land by front and rear rollers (2) and (3). The front roller (2) has a covering of oil absorbing material and works against a pinch roller (26) to squeeze oil absorbed by the covering into a trough for collection. The machine may be driven into the water supported by floats (13) adjustable by rams (17) to control the depth of penetration of the roller (2). Operation is possible in shallow water, on beaches and in estuary conditions.