Red Fox Stows Away on Cargo Ship, Travels 3,400 Miles to New York

The unexpected passenger is now recovering at the Bronx Zoo after the long journey from England.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:11pm

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A red fox was discovered after stowing away on a cargo ship traveling from England to New York. The wild canine is now recovering at the Bronx Zoo following the 3,400-mile journey. Officials say the fox appears healthy following veterinary examinations.

Why it matters

The discovery of the stowaway fox highlights the resourcefulness and adaptability of wildlife, as well as the potential risks posed by cargo shipments traveling long distances. It also raises questions about biosecurity and the measures needed to prevent the accidental transport of non-native species.

The details

The cargo ship, which was transporting automobiles, departed England on February 4 and arrived in the New York area on February 18. Port officers discovered the unexpected stowaway after the ship docked, prompting several agencies to coordinate next steps for the animal's care. The fox was transported to the Bronx Zoo the following day, where officials estimate the male fox is about two years old and weighs around 11 pounds. Early veterinary checks suggest the animal is doing well after the long trip.

  • The cargo ship departed England on February 4, 2026.
  • The cargo ship arrived in the New York area on February 18, 2026.
  • The fox was discovered by port officers after the ship docked.
  • The fox was transported to the Bronx Zoo the day after its discovery.

The players

Bronx Zoo

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

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

The federal agency that located the 'sly stowaway' fox and coordinated with other agencies for its relocation.

Diane J. Sabatino

The executive assistant commissioner at U.S. Customs and Border Protection who announced the discovery of the fox on social media.

Keith Lovett

The director of animal programs at the Bronx Zoo, who stated that the fox 'seems to be settling in well' and 'has gone through a lot.'

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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

“We located the 'sly stowaway' and then had agriculture specialists work with partners, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, to relocate the animal.”

— Diane J. Sabatino, Executive Assistant Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

What’s next

The fox will undergo additional health screenings at the Bronx Zoo's veterinary center before a permanent home is determined.

The takeaway

This unexpected stowaway journey highlights the potential risks posed by cargo shipments and the importance of biosecurity measures to prevent the accidental transport of non-native species. It also showcases the resourcefulness and adaptability of wildlife, as well as the efforts of various agencies to ensure the fox's wellbeing.