Boy Jumps Into Water To Rescue Tangled Pelican In Alameda: Police

ALAMEDA, CA — A boy's quick thinking in Alameda may have saved a tangled-up pelican last, police said.

Police say a group of boys was at the Fortmann Marina in Alameda watching as an Animal Control Officer was trying to rescue an injured pelican.

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The officer couldn't manage to get a hold of the bird, which kept escaping by jumping into the water, the Alameda Police Department said.

Shortly after, the officer and boys noticed that the bird's wing was tangled in a fishing line and had hooks embedded in its body, police said.

That's when one of the boys, who police identified only as Leo, jumped into the water and "fearlessly" swam towards the bird, police said.

"Even more incredible, Leo knew exactly how to properly handle the injured bird as he brought it back to shore," police said. "When asked how he knew what to do, Leo simply replied: “By watching people like you on TV."

Police said the pelican is now receiving treatment at the International Bird Rescue.

"Thank you, Leo, for stepping up and showing what it means to care for both animals and your community," police added. "You never know… we may just be looking at a future Alameda Animal Control Officer in the making."