Rescuers in Germany have saved a 'fat rat' that got stuck in a manhole cover.
The unusual rescue operation happened in town of Bensheim, after a young girl raised the alarm that the rodent was trapped.
Several firefighters and animal rescue volunteers attended the scene.
They lifted up the manhole cover and managed to safely rescue the creature.
Animal rescuer Michael Sehr told local media: "She had a lot of winter flab and was stuck at her hip - there was no getting out forward or back."
He added: "Even those animals that are hated by many people deserve respect."
Rescuers were handed a picture of the animal by the young girl who initially spotted the trapped rodent.
On social media, many praised the teams involved for their efforts in saving the rat.
Others questioned the amount of effort spent on the rescue.
Local animal rescue group Berufstierrettung Rhein Neckar wrote on Facebook that it was "honoured and happy" about all the positive feedback it has received, including 'innumerable' messages of support.
It adds: "There is also a lot of criticism, which we naturally accept.
"But what we find completely unacceptable is the hatred of a small creature and comments on killing the animal.
"Everyone may have their opinion on it, but from our perspective we do not tolerate any calls for killing an animal!
"Many animals will continue to be saved, regardless of what species they are."
