NEW YORK – In a tale that could well be titled “The Sly Stowaway,” a red fox has made an unexpected journey across the Atlantic, landing in New York after sneaking aboard a cargo ship originating from Southampton, England. Now, this wily traveler is under the careful watch of the Bronx Zoo.
After its transatlantic adventure, the 11-pound (5-kilogram) male fox is reported to be in good health, following initial examinations by the zoo’s veterinary team. “He seems to be settling in well,” remarked Keith Lovett, the zoo’s director of animal programs, in a phone interview. “It’s gone through a lot,” he added, highlighting the resilience of the creature.
How exactly the fox managed to board the ship remains a mystery. The vessel, laden with automobiles, departed from Southampton on February 4 and docked at the Port of New York and New Jersey on February 18. The fox, estimated to be around two years old, was subsequently brought to the Bronx Zoo the following day.
Despite the intrigue surrounding its discovery, zoo officials have yet to confirm the precise details of when and how the fox was found. Inquiries have been made to government agencies connected with the port to shed light on this curious case.
It’s not clear how the animal got on the ship full of automobiles, which left Southampton on Feb. 4, according to the zoo. The ship arrived Feb. 18 at the Port of New York and New Jersey, and officials brought the fox to the zoo the next day. He’s estimated to be 2 years old.
Zoo representatives weren’t sure how and when the fox was discovered. Messages seeking those details were sent to government agencies involved with the port.
The species, formally named Vulpes vulpes, is widespread in Europe, Asia, North America and parts of Africa. A long-term home for this fox will be found once he clears some more health screening.
For now, he’s in the zoo’s veterinary center. Being an omnivore, he’s getting a diet of produce, proteins and some biscuit-like items.
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