They couldn’t just leave him there.
Published on July 1, 2026 at 2:23 PM
The town of Hempstead, New York, is known for its breathtaking parks and beaches, sprawling natural areas that house an array of wildlife, including turtles, herons and salamanders.
Recently, community members in Hempstead stopped short when they noticed one of their wild neighbors in trouble. A laughing gull was hopelessly tangled in a piece of rope, dangling above a busy intersection.
In need of expert assistance, the passersby called 911. Emergency dispatchers contacted the Hempstead Village Police Department and the Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department, who sent rescuers to the scene. When local animal rescuer John Debacker heard the news, he also headed over to see how he could help.
Rescue team members shut down the intersection and used an aerial platform attached to a fire truck to reach the bird.
Debacker watched from the ground as the firefighters carefully untangled the gull. He felt himself relax when he saw the bird was finally free.
“It was a great feeling,” Debacker told The Dodo.
According to the NYC Bird Alliance, laughing gulls, named for their high-pitched territorial calls, are very common in the area and can be spotted all along New York City beaches, especially during the summertime. Debacker, a longtime animal advocate, was glad to see the beloved local bird out of harm’s way.
Firefighters transferred the bird to Debacker, who took him to Sweetbriar Nature Center for further examinations and care.
Safe with experts at Sweetbriar, this gull can finally relax. With any luck, it won’t be long until he’s back where he belongs, flying through the skies above his home on Long Island.
To keep up with Debacker’s rescues, you can follow him on Facebook.