Hackney resident's fox rescue sparks unusual bond

A Hackney resident’s unexpected connection with a rescued fox has captured public attention after her story went viral on social media in September 2025. Blakeley Bermingham, 43, and Josh Smith shared the story of “Meatball,” a fox she began caring for after finding her injured in her garden, garnering almost seven million views on TikTok and Instagram.

A Fortuitous Rescue

Bermingham first discovered the fox in October 2024, shivering, bleeding, and exhibiting signs of mange – a common and often fatal condition for foxes, particularly during the winter months. Recognizing the animal’s distress, she contacted the Fox Angels Foundation, a charity dedicated to rescuing and treating injured foxes, and began providing Meatball with medicated turkey mince meatballs.

Did You Know? Notice an estimated 10,000 urban foxes living in London, yet up to 80% of cubs die before reaching adulthood, often due to road accidents.

With the support of Fox Angels, Meatball gradually recovered and began regularly returning to Bermingham’s garden. The relationship deepened over the following year, with Meatball becoming comfortable enough to enter Bermingham’s home and interact with her surroundings, even watching television.

The Challenges of Urban Wildlife Care

The story highlights the challenges faced by organizations like Fox Angels, which rely solely on donations to provide care for foxes. The foundation treats approximately 400 foxes onsite each month, with an additional 14 requiring veterinary or rehabilitation center care for more serious injuries. Treatment costs can be substantial, ranging from over £2,000 for an injured eye to £5,000 for a fractured leg.

Expert Insight: The case of Meatball underscores the growing intersection between urban development and wildlife, and the ethical considerations that arise when humans intervene in the lives of wild animals. The reliance on charitable organizations for this care highlights a gap in systemic support for urban wildlife rehabilitation.

Despite the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons requiring emergency care for all animals, Fox Angels reports that many veterinarians are reluctant to treat foxes. Lynne Driscoll, Chair of Fox Angels Foundation, emphasized the need for greater recognition of foxes as sentient beings with complex social structures and feelings. She also noted the prevalence of fox hunting and poisoning in urban areas like London.

Foxes are legally classified as wild animals, not pests, meaning local councils have no obligation to remove them from private or public property.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused Meatball’s initial condition?

Meatball was found shivering, bleeding, and with bald patches indicating mange, a common issue for foxes, especially during winter.

How did Blakeley Bermingham begin caring for Meatball?

Bermingham contacted the Fox Angels Foundation after speaking with her local vet and began leaving medicated food for the fox in her garden.

What is the role of the Fox Angels Foundation?

The Fox Angels Foundation rescues and treats injured foxes, relying on donations and a team of 26 volunteers who treat around 400 foxes each month.

As urban environments continue to encroach on wildlife habitats, the story of Meatball raises questions about the responsibility humans have towards the animals with whom they share their cities.

Hackney resident’s fox rescue sparks unusual bond