A stowaway fox that traveled from England to New York on a cargo ship has completed quarantine and is now in good health after receiving treatment at the Bronx Zoo.
The two-year-old male red fox, named Basil, was found among cargo when the vessel arrived at the Port of New York and New Jersey in February. He had been diagnosed with French heartworm, a parasite that can cause severe respiratory disease.
Stowaway Fox Recovery
Basil underwent a month-long treatment program involving three different types of deworming medication at the Bronx Zoo. Veterinary staff said the fox showed a “dramatic improvement” during treatment and is now weighing nearly 14lb, up from 11lb when he arrived.
The Wildlife Conservation Society, which runs the Bronx Zoo, said the parasite is rare in the United States and infects blood vessels in the lungs. Basil’s recovery is a significant success story, with zoo staff pleased with his progress since his long journey across the Atlantic.
The zoo is still assessing a suitable long-term home for Basil, who has become an unlikely celebrity after his transatlantic adventure. His case came weeks after a stowaway raccoon was put down due to concerns it could be carrying diseases.
Next Steps
The successful treatment of Basil highlights the importance of monitoring and controlling the spread of diseases across international borders. The case also underscores the need for vigilance in detecting and responding to potential biosecurity threats.
As Basil settles into his new life in the United States, his story serves as a reminder of the complex and often unexpected challenges of managing wildlife and disease in a globalized world. The recovery of the stowaway fox is a testament to the dedication and expertise of zoo staff and veterinarians.
