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 a long journey across the Atlantic.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 4:34pm

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A red fox somehow managed to slip onto a cargo ship that traveled from Southampton, England to the Port of New York and New Jersey. The 11-pound male fox, estimated to be 2 years old, was discovered upon the ship's arrival and is now being cared for at the Bronx Zoo. Early examinations indicate the fox appears healthy despite his unexpected transatlantic voyage.

Why it matters

The discovery of the stowaway fox highlights the potential risks and challenges associated with cargo shipments, as well as the resourcefulness and adaptability of wildlife. The incident also raises questions about port security and the protocols in place to identify and handle unexpected animal arrivals.

The details

The cargo ship, carrying a load of automobiles, left Southampton, England on February 4th and arrived at the Port of New York and New Jersey on February 18th. Zoo officials were notified of the fox's presence the following day and transported him to the Bronx Zoo's veterinary center. It's unclear exactly how and when the fox was discovered on the ship, and authorities are still investigating the details.

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

The players

Bronx Zoo

A world-renowned zoo located in the Bronx borough of New York City, known for its diverse collection of animals and commitment to conservation.

Keith Lovett

The director of animal programs at the Bronx Zoo, who spoke about the fox's condition and care.

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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 fox's health and behavior, and work to find a suitable long-term home for the animal once it has cleared additional health screenings.

The takeaway

This unexpected stowaway incident serves as a reminder of the potential for wildlife to find their way into unexpected places, and the importance of vigilance and proper protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and humans in such situations.