A white-tailed deer was rescued after becoming entangled in a backyard zip line in Brookhaven, Long Island, in a dramatic incident captured on cellphone video. The footage shows the deer caught mid-air, its antlers snagged on the zip line as it struggled in panic, while a volunteer from Strong Island Animal Rescue League used bolt cutters to free the animal safely.

Authorities credit the swift response of the rescue group, who arrived following a police call, for preventing serious injury to the deer. The incident underscores the risks that suburban wildlife face when human-made structures, such as playground and obstacle course equipment, intersect with natural habitats.

Long Island’s deer population has surged significantly over the decades, increasing nearly 400 percent since 1960 according to U.S. Forest Service data. This growth has amplified the potential for encounters between wildlife and human infrastructure, particularly in fragmented habitats where open yards and recreational setups mimic natural obstacles but create unintentional hazards.

The rescued deer was assessed by volunteers and released back into a safe area, highlighting the importance of community-based wildlife intervention and preparedness in suburban areas. The event serves as a reminder of the need to monitor backyard structures and take precautions to prevent wildlife accidents in populated areas.