Commuters at Brighton railway station were greeted with an unusual sight, A family of foxes has made a home under a small hut beside the tracks at platform eight. The mother and her seven cubs were discovered by staff, sparking both concern and fascination among daily passengers.
Govia Thameslink Railway, which operates the station, has expressed concerns about the safety of both the foxes and the station’s patrons. A spokesperson for the train operator stated, “We’re concerned for the safety of our customers as well as the foxes, so we’re looking at ways to move the mother and cubs safely.”
The presence of the foxes in such a bustling urban environment highlights the increasing instances of wildlife encounters in city settings. The railway company is taking a cautious approach, involving several bodies to ensure the safe relocation of the fox family. “As this is trackside, Network Rail is providing support and we’ve made contact with the RSPCA about the best way forward,” the spokesperson added.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has been consulted to devise a plan that ensures the welfare of the animals while considering the operational needs of the railway. The plan will likely involve carefully moving the foxes to a safer, more suitable habitat where they won’t pose a risk to themselves or others.
