Moggio Udinese, Italy – On November 8, 2025, firefighters carried out a complex rescue operation to save a young calf that had fallen into a gorge in the Riuc area of Moggio Udinese (UD).

The Speleo Alpino Fluviale (SAF) unit from the Udine Fire Command, together with the Tolmezzo detachment and the Venice-based helicopter Drago 149, responded after being alerted by the animal’s owner.

Using alpine rescue techniques, the firefighters descended into the steep, heavily wooded area where the calf was trapped. After confirming the animal was uninjured, they cleared the site of branches and brush to make room for the lift.

The rescuers secured the calf with a special harness designed for animals and attached it to the helicopter’s winch hook. The crew then lifted the animal safely from the gorge and transported it to a secure area, where it was returned to its owner.

Because of the rough terrain and dense vegetation, the operation was particularly difficult. However, precise coordination between the ground team and the helicopter crew ensured the rescue ended successfully.

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