A video of California’s Oakland firefighters putting an oxygen mask on a pigeon has gone viral. The footage struck a chord because it shows the softer side of firefighting. The clip captures a moment of quiet compassion in the middle of a first responder’s day.
Firefighters were spotted helping pigeon after car fire
Firefighters in Oakland, California, stepped in to help a bird that needed aid.
According to a Facebook post from the International Association of Firefighters Local 55, Oakland Fire Department’s E29 team responded to a pigeon in distress on Tuesday, July 14, following a car fire.
“The crew reported the pigeon came up to them seeking help. The pigeon seemed to have suffered some smoke inhalation from the vehicle fire. E29’s crew administered the pigeon some oxygen and the bird shortly flew away after clearing out its lungs,” read the caption.
In the clip, a firefighter in full gear kneels and offers an oxygen mask to a gray pigeon. The bird stays largely still throughout, only shifting slightly toward the mask. Behind them, the scene is busy with flashing emergency lights and a fire truck.
The footage circulated widely online, with people praising the firefighters for their patience and care. “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated,” a fan quoted. “Awww thank you. Smart bird knew who to ask for help,” wrote another. “Awwwwwwww. He needs to be the next Firefighters’ calendar model for July 2027, while holding a pigeon. What a wonderful human!” gushed a Facebook user. “This is why firefighters have the reputation of being so desirable,” echoed a follower.
Although firefighters are recognized for rescuing people from dangerous situations, they also regularly come to the aid of animals. A similar incident happened in May when Pasco County Fire Rescue in Florida freed an owl trapped between two tree trunks. “Our crews treat every call with care, whether it involves a person or an animal,” fire officials told PEOPLE then.
