Red Fox Stows Away on Cargo Ship from England to New York

The 11-pound male fox is now in the care of the Bronx Zoo after arriving in the U.S. on a ship full of automobiles.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:03am

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A red fox somehow managed to sneak onto a cargo ship that traveled from Southampton, England, to New York, where the animal is now being cared for at the Bronx Zoo. The 11-pound male fox appears healthy after early examinations, though it's unclear how he got on the ship full of automobiles that left Southampton on February 4 and arrived at the Port of New York and New Jersey on February 18.

Why it matters

The unexpected arrival of a wild animal from overseas raises questions about port security and cargo inspections, as well as the fox's well-being after its long journey. Red foxes are a common sight in many parts of the world, but it's highly unusual for one to accidentally make such an intercontinental voyage.

The details

According to the Bronx Zoo, the 2-year-old red fox is settling in well at the zoo's veterinary center, where he is being fed a diet of produce, proteins, and biscuit-like items. Zoo representatives were not sure exactly when or how the fox was discovered during the ship's journey.

  • The cargo ship left Southampton, England on February 4, 2026.
  • The ship arrived at the Port of New York and New Jersey on February 18, 2026.
  • The fox was brought to the Bronx Zoo the day after the ship's arrival, on February 19, 2026.

The players

Bronx Zoo

A zoo located in Bronx, New York that is caring for the red fox that stowed away on the cargo ship.

Keith Lovett

The director of animal programs at the Bronx Zoo, who stated that the fox appears healthy and is settling in well at the zoo.

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What they’re saying

“He seems to be settling in well. It's gone through a lot.”

— Keith Lovett, Director of Animal Programs, Bronx Zoo

What’s next

The Bronx Zoo will continue to monitor the red fox's health and behavior as it determines a long-term home for the animal.

The takeaway

This unusual stowaway incident highlights the potential risks and challenges associated with cargo shipments, as well as the resourcefulness and adaptability of wildlife like the red fox, which was able to survive the long journey from England to New York.