Baby Seriously Injured In Fox Attack

10 February 2013, 12:40

Police are investigating a fox attack on a one-month-old baby boy, who reportedly had his finger bitten off in south east London.

The animal seriously injured the infant after entering his bedroom in Bromley, and dragged him from his cot.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "We were called at 1638 on Wednesday 6th February by staff at St Thomas's Hospital to reports a baby boy who had been admitted to hospital after being attacked by a fox.

"Police attended to find a four-week-old baby with a hand injury.

"The baby was admitted to hospital after the attack at its home address in Bromley.

"Inquiries continue."

There are report the child's mother was alerted by his screaming and rushed into his room to see his the animal attacking him.

Surgeons were able to reattach the baby's finger and he was said to be recovering well.

London Mayor Boris Johnson has said more must be done to tackle the growing problem of urban foxes.

Mr Johnson also said his thoughts were "with the baby boy and his family".

An RSPCA spokeswoman said the only reason a fox would attack is due to fear.

She said: "It's extremely unusual for foxes to attack young children or anyone.

"It's not typical fox behaviour at all. Foxes will come closer to a house if there are food sources. Then they can become quite bold, but they usually do back off and run away when there's people around."

The issue of foxes attacking humans has divided the public, with many sceptics questioning recent cases amid fears of a backlash against urban foxes.