Firefighters Rescue Raccoon with Peanut Butter Jar Stuck on Head

The Shelburne Fire Department responded to a unique call to help remove the jar from the animal's head.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 7:33am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A raccoon in Shelburne, Vermont, found itself in a sticky situation after getting a peanut butter jar stuck on its head. Firefighters used a ladder and a snare to safely remove the jar from the raccoon, which was perched 25 feet up in a tree.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the versatility of the Shelburne Fire Department in responding to a wide range of situations, not just fires and medical emergencies. It also serves as a reminder for residents to properly dispose of food containers to prevent wildlife from getting into trouble.

The details

Firefighters were called to the scene after someone spotted the raccoon with the jar stuck on its head. Using a ladder, they were able to reach the animal and carefully remove the jar using a snare. The department shared photos of the raccoon in its precarious position high up in the tree.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 18, 2026.

The players

Shelburne Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the call and rescued the raccoon with the peanut butter jar stuck on its head.

Raccoon

The wild animal that found itself in a sticky situation after getting a peanut butter jar stuck on its head.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The case is a reminder to properly dispose of food containers and secure trash because wildlife is often looking for those tasty smells like that of peanut butter.”

— Shelburne Fire Department

The takeaway

This incident showcases the Shelburne Fire Department's ability to handle a wide range of situations, not just traditional emergencies. It also serves as a reminder for residents to be mindful of how they dispose of food containers to prevent similar incidents involving local wildlife.