Heard a noise and went to investigate; this little guy fell down the chimney and got himself stuck in the wood stove. He got out when I tried to grab him, but the cat helped catch him -- thankfully not too much!! Just a paw on his tail and I was able to scoop him up. I set the camera up before attempting the rescue and took about four shots like this. I didn't want to freak him out more than he already was. He just froze once he knew he was caught and lay there in my hand, all lightweight and warm As you can see I was holding him very loosely indeed. He was soft, and I could feel his little bird heart hammering away.

Right after this picture was taken I went to the door and opened it.
He lay there for a moment longer as if he didn't realize he was free, then with a great burst he exploded from my hand in a cloud of wings and was gone.