Ziggy the fox rescued after wandering the ice for days in the barnegat bay
Ziggy - Photo by Dr. Mei-An Raicer

Ziggy the Fox Rescued After Wandering the Ice for Days in the Barnegat Bay

In a heartwarming twist straight out of a Disney movie, Ziggy the fox (aka Little Foot) has survived a wild misadventure that had the internet rooting for him. The scrappy red fox, who somehow ended up on a rogue floating dock in Seaside Park, NJ, is now getting the care he so desperately needed—and it’s giving all of us the feels.

For weeks, Shane Coyle, an animal rescuer and Ziggy’s unofficial hype man, had been trying to capture the elusive fox. But Ziggy was clearly living life on his own terms—until the floating dock incident. The situation escalated on Saturday when a photo of Ziggy, looking both majestic and helpless, went viral on social media. The world collectively panicked, especially as a storm loomed.

Fast-forward to Tuesday, and it seemed like a grim ending was in store. But plot twist: Ziggy was alive! Coyle, who was initially heartbroken, couldn’t contain his excitement when he shared a video update announcing the good news. Ziggy’s now receiving VIP treatment (that’s Very Important Predator, obviously) at Bayshore Veterinary Hospital, where he’s being nursed back to health.

Dr. Mei-An Raicer, the vet taking care of Ziggy, shared updates on his recovery. This little survivor is battling a mite infestation that’s left him with scabs on his ears and face, but he’s on antibiotics, pain meds, and a proper diet. Spoiler alert: Ziggy’s eating, which is a huge win for his recovery.

This whole saga has become a rallying cry for animal lovers. People scrambled to help, posting updates, sharing resources, and even braving stormy weather to track Ziggy down. Now, thanks to everyone’s efforts, this resilient fox is on his way to a full recovery.

If Ziggy’s story doesn’t restore your faith in humanity (and foxkind), what will? Keep thriving, Ziggy—we’re all rooting for you!

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

For story tips, corrections, or media inquiries, readers can contact Shore News Network through its official website and social media channels.