Florida fire rescue crews save ‘helpless’ newborn calf after mom dies during birth

Video above: Temple Terrace officers wrangle bull running loose in neighborhood

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida fire rescue crews are rejoicing after rescuing a baby calf after its mother died during birth on Sunday.

Marion County Fire Rescue said they rushed into action after a man and his son approached the crews “with an urgent plea for help.” They told crews that a newborn calf was stuck in the swamp, “desperately in need after its mother sadly passed away during birth.”

Without hesitation, first responders ventured into the swamp to save the “helpless” calf. After being rescued, the baby animal was brought back to the warmth of Station 6.

On Monday, MCFR shared an update on the calf, whom they named Maybelle, announcing that St. John’s River Management District connected MCFR Captain Justin McKinney with the farmer.

The farmer donated the calf to Justin, “finding a silver lining in this bittersweet rescue.”

According to fire rescue, the crews took turns bottle-feeding the calf through the night, ensuring she felt loved and cared for.

“We’re overjoyed to share that Maybelle has now moved to her forever home with the McKinney family, where she will be cherished and adored. This story isn’t just about a rescue; it’s about community, kindness, and the incredible bond between firefighters and the lives they touch, both human and animal,” fire rescue said.