Red Fox Stows Away on Cargo Ship from England to US

The 11-pound male fox is now in the care of the Bronx Zoo after arriving in New York.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 7:12pm

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A red fox somehow slipped onto a cargo ship that traveled from Southampton, England, to New York, where the animal is now in the Bronx Zoo's care. The zoo said the 11-pound male fox appears healthy after early examinations and is settling in well, though it's unclear how the animal got on the ship full of automobiles.

Why it matters

The discovery of a stowaway red fox on a cargo ship highlights the potential for unexpected animal stowaways to travel long distances, raising questions about biosecurity and the welfare of animals that may be inadvertently transported. The Bronx Zoo's efforts to care for the fox also showcase their role in providing sanctuary for displaced wildlife.

The details

The cargo ship left Southampton, England on February 4 and arrived at the Port of New York and New Jersey on February 18. Officials brought the 2-year-old, 11-pound male fox to the Bronx Zoo the next day. Zoo representatives are unsure exactly how and when the fox was discovered during the ship's voyage.

  • 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.
  • Officials brought the fox to the Bronx Zoo on February 19, 2026.

The players

Bronx Zoo

A zoo located in Bronx, New York that is now caring for the stowaway red fox.

Keith Lovett

The director of animal programs at the Bronx 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 monitoring the fox's health and determine a long-term home for the animal once it clears additional health screenings.

The takeaway

This unusual case of a stowaway red fox highlights the potential for unexpected animal stowaways and the important role zoos like the Bronx Zoo play in providing care and sanctuary for displaced wildlife.