Emergency responders rescued a Red Book-listed moose calf during a fire in the Chernobyl zone

While fighting a massive fire in the Chernobyl forest, firefighters came across a defenseless animal on the road. According to the State Emergency Service, the small moose calf had made its way to the people on its own. Rescuers assumed that it had lost its mother in the fire and was seeking refuge from the smoke.

What is the moose calf’s condition?

The moose calf was frightened and exhausted. Firefighters quickly contacted zoologists and veterinarians and gave the animal water. After an initial examination and consultations with forestry officials, the moose calf was handed over to ecologists. It is currently under the care of specialists.

We thank the State Emergency Service rescuers for saving lives—both human lives and those of animals who cannot ask for help themselves.

What is known about the fire in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone?

Firefighting efforts in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone have been ongoing since May 7. Emergency responders are working around the clock to contain the spread of the fire and extinguish the hotspots. Despite the difficult situation with the fire, the State Emergency Service notes that as of the morning of May 8, radiation levels in the Kyiv region and throughout Ukraine remain within normal limits.

At the same time, as the Kyiv Regional State Emergency Service reported to TSN.ua, a significant portion of the territory is on fire, and the situation is complicated by weather conditions.

“The estimated area of the fire is over 1,100 hectares. The situation is complicated by dry weather, strong winds, and the danger of landmines in certain areas, which significantly limits the ability to carry out firefighting operations. In particular, work is temporarily suspended in some forest sections due to the threat of explosive objects,” the statement reads.

However, the story of this moose calf is just one episode against the backdrop of a massive disaster. We urge everyone to be as cautious as possible and strictly follow fire safety rules. We remind you that under no circumstances should you burn dry vegetation or build fires in unauthorized areas.

In the first four months of 2026 alone, there were over 11,000 fires in ecosystems and open areas across Ukraine. Most of them were not the result of military operations, but rather the result of human negligence or deliberate arson.

Let’s protect nature together.

Photos: State Emergency Service of Ukraine and State Emergency Service of Kyiv