Firefighters Come To Pigeon's Rescue But The Cute Moment Doesn't Have Everyone On Board

We turn to firefighters in our most heart-stopping moments, when infernos blaze, or a life is in danger. Heroism is part of the job. A firefighter bursting out of a crumbling building with a child in their arms receives almost universal acclaim from the public. Animal rescues, however, lead to more checkered applause. A viral Instagram video posted by an Oakland, California, fire crew has engendered a mass of warm support — and a wave of mild indignation. The controversy revolves around one of America's most misunderstood birds: the pigeon.

The video shows a kneeling firefighter providing oxygen to a pigeon. The bird accepts its treatment more passively than some humans would, barely moving, although the oxygen mask dwarfs its face. According to the fire crew, the pigeon's lungs may have suffered after a vehicle fire sent smoke into the surrounding air. They gave the creature oxygen, and it flew away. A supportive viewer said in the video's comment section said, "I can't even describe the level of emotion this makes me feel. Thank you for caring for all of our friends..." However, another commenter said, "While somebody grandma can't get a new tank," implying that the pigeon received resources that many elderly people cannot access. Someone else just noted that they hate pigeons.

Official organizations are weighing in on the pigeon drama, too. Animal rights group PETA awarded the Oakland Fire Department its Compassionate Fire Department Award, an honor reserved for firefighters who demonstrate compassion to animals in need.

Americans didn't start disliking pigeons until the 1930s or 1940s. Prior to that shift, pigeons were well-liked or even revered. Owning pigeons wasn't uncommon; they were used as messengers in World War I, and an ancient Mughal emperor traveled with a flock of thousands. Even today, pigeons can make good pets if you know how to take care of them. They're often affectionate and gentle, and they have a long history of living with humans.

Despite the persistent dumb-bird stereotype, pigeons are also trainable. Training your pet means you can enjoy watching them do tricks like eating from your hand and keep them safer inside the house. You can train racing pigeons, too, if you want to work with your flock. You'll just need a well-built pigeon house and enough time to stick to a training schedule and matches. Serious enthusiasts can attend pigeon racing conferences and travel around the country to meet other pigeon keepers.