NEW YORK — A clever red fox managed to pull off quite the international adventure by secretly boarding a cargo vessel bound for America.
The 11-pound male fox somehow made his way onto the ship while it was docked in Southampton, England, and rode along for the entire two-week voyage to New York. Zoo officials announced Wednesday that the animal is now receiving care at the Bronx Zoo.
According to the zoo, the fox appears to be in good health following initial veterinary checkups.
“He seems to be settling in well,” said Keith Lovett, the zoo’s director of animal programs, speaking by telephone. “It’s gone through a lot.”
The mystery remains as to exactly how the fox managed to board the automobile-carrying vessel, which departed Southampton on February 4th. The ship reached the Port of New York and New Jersey on February 18th, and port authorities delivered the unexpected passenger to the zoo the following day. Veterinarians estimate the fox to be approximately 2 years old.
Zoo staff members were unable to provide details about how or when crew members first spotted the fox during the journey. Officials have reached out to various government agencies connected to the port for additional information.
The red fox, scientifically known as Vulpes vulpes, can be found across Europe, Asia, North America and certain regions of Africa. Once the animal completes additional health evaluations, zoo officials will determine a permanent living arrangement.
Currently, the fox is staying at the zoo’s veterinary facility where staff are providing him with a varied diet including fruits, vegetables, protein sources and specialized biscuit treats appropriate for omnivores.
