An unusual passenger slyly arrives in New York

Not all travellers crossing the Atlantic carry passports. One unexpected passenger, a red fox, recently completed a remarkable journey from Southampton, England, to New York after quietly stowing away on a cargo ship.

The furry adventurer is now recovering under the watchful care of the Bronx Zoo, after what may be one of the most unusual wildlife voyages in recent memory.A fox on a transatlantic joyrideThe ship, loaded with automobiles, left Southampton on February 4. Somewhere along the journey, the crew discovered their unusual passenger while travelling to the Port of New York and New Jersey, according to US Customs and Border Protection.

When the vessel arrived on February 18, the fox was taken to the zoo the following day. The 11-pound male fox, estimated to be about two years old, appears healthy after initial examinations.

“He seems to be settling in well,” said Keith Lovett as reported by AP. “It’s gone through a lot.”From cargo deck to the zoo’s veterinary centreThe animal belongs to the species Vulpes vulpes, one of the world’s most widespread mammals found across Europe, Asia, North America and parts of Africa. For now, the globe-trotting fox is staying at the zoo’s veterinary centre while he completes health screenings. His current menu includes produce, proteins and biscuit-like food items — a welcome change after his unexpected sea voyage. Once the checks are complete, the zoo will decide on a permanent home.