The Shard’s Secret Fox Resident Unveils a Hidden London Gem

Have you ever pictured a fox as a skyscraper resident? London’s iconic 95-story building, The Shard, housed such an unexpected tenant. The Shard may be known for its stunning views of the city, yet there’s a story that will give your next visit to London an interesting twist.

Before the public could enter The Shard, its construction site intrigued many. Roughly two weeks before the building’s final ceremony, workers found a fox on the 72nd floor. They named the animal Romeo. This animal had been eating waste from the workers’ meals, a detail that intrigued the construction team.

The fox became widely known when a worker shared his photos on the internet. This prompted the team to install “fox-proof” fencing to prevent similar future incidents. Travelers often look for the local touch in destinations, and The Shard’s workforce contributed their personal touch to the site. They welcomed the fox’s presence by leaving out a particular snack that only the animal enjoyed. The crane operator, touched by the story, placed a toy fox in his cab for good for luck.

The construction team unofficially adopted a mascot—a fox wearing a safety helmet—honoring their unexpected guest’s durability. This figure was well-received among the workers, demonstrating the strong relationship they had with their project.

Following the fox’s departure, the workers began a fund to contribute to animal charities. Look for the subtle fox design in the metalwork—a reference to the inside joke among the crew. Details like these can make a visit to The Shard particularly memorable.

By visiting The Shard, you’re engaging with a piece of London’s living history, one that merges the a natural and the constructed in unanticipated ways. So, on your next trip to London, include The Shard and recall the story of the fox—a narrative that illustrates the city’s unique appeal.