Two tropical birds were rescued when fire fighters doused a small fire at a home in South Wantagh Friday afternoon.

The fire on Oakdale Court started about 12:13 p.m., and the Wantagh Fire Department dispatched seven vehicles - two pumper trucks, two ladder trucks and three ambulances - to the site, spokesman Harry Loud said.

"Firefighters had it under control in about 15 or 20 minutes," he said. "It really never took off."

Loud said the birds were moved in their cages into the backyard of the home and then covered with blankets to keep them warm. When the homeowner arrived at the scene, he was able to move the birds to a safer, warmer place, Loud said.

The Bellmore Fire Department also responded with a ladder truck.

Loud said officials think the fire started outdoors, from a cigarette, and spread into the basement of the three-bedroom raised ranch.

Officials are still investigating the origin of the fire.

From Love Lane in Mattituck, NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano and Newsday deputy lifestyle editor Meghan Giannotta have your look at ways to celebrate Valentine's Day this year. Credit: Randee Daddona, Gary Licker; Newsday / A.J. Singh

Put a little love in your heart with the NewsdayTV Valentine's Day Special! From Love Lane in Mattituck, NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano and Newsday deputy lifestyle editor Meghan Giannotta have your look at ways to celebrate Valentine's Day this year.

From Love Lane in Mattituck, NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano and Newsday deputy lifestyle editor Meghan Giannotta have your look at ways to celebrate Valentine's Day this year. Credit: Randee Daddona, Gary Licker; Newsday / A.J. Singh

Put a little love in your heart with the NewsdayTV Valentine's Day Special! From Love Lane in Mattituck, NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano and Newsday deputy lifestyle editor Meghan Giannotta have your look at ways to celebrate Valentine's Day this year.

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