Oakland firefighters give oxygen to distressed pigeon after vehicle fire

Oakland, California: A video of an Oakland firefighter giving oxygen to a pigeon has gone viral on social media, drawing praise for the crew’s compassion.

On Wednesday evening, after responding to a vehicle fire in East Oakland, the E29 crew of Oakland Firefighters noticed a pigeon in distress near the scene.

According to the Oakland Firefighters Local 55 Facebook page, “the pigeon came up to them seeking help.” The bird appeared to have suffered smoke inhalation during the fire.

The crew administered oxygen to the bird. “The bird soon flew away after clearing out its lungs,” the department said in the post.

The clip quickly spread online, with many commenters noting the bond between humans and pigeons.

“We domesticated pigeons—they come to us for help because we trained them to,” wrote Katherine Linville. “Sweet little birds.”“The trust that pigeon has for him… It knows the man is a life saver,” commented Taj-Ma R. Carter. “They watch us closely and know us well.”“Humans and pigeons had bonds,” added Mai Caroline. “They’re ridiculously smart creatures.”

The incident highlights the often-overlooked role pigeons have played alongside humans, from urban companions to wartime messengers.