Wednesday, 2 December 2015

Farewell to Frodo


Sadly, last Friday afternoon, Frodo passed away...

Frodo was not only an ambassador for foxes, but an ambassador for British wildlife. He will never know the number of people he helped inspire to care for our wildlife, but he will always be remembered. Frodo passed away comfortably, peacefully, and in his home at the grand old age of 13.

Arguably the most photographed fox in the world, his image will remain iconic for many years. He is well known for being the fox on the packaging of the Epsom ink cartridges, he appears in many books, on many cards and posters and even a quick search on the internet show countless photographs of him by both professionals and amateurs.

Frodo was one of the animals here when I first arrived nearly 12 years a go, and in that time we formed a strong bond, worked closely with each other and watched each other grow, mature and change the way we work and the Centre itself. I knew him most of his life, and he was without doubt the most laid back fox I have ever known. Always reliable, ever dependable, if none other came out for a talk or photographic session you could almost see the look of "it's alright, I'll do it" on his face.

He brought much joy to many peoples lives, and leaves a lasting influence and legacy behind him. He will be missed by many, keepers and public alike, but will always be remembered.

Goodbye fantastic Mr Fox,

Goodbye fantastic Mr Frodo,

Goodbye my friend...



19 comments:

  1. So very sorry to hear about this Matt. A real character and a pleasure to watch and photograph. ��

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  2. Such a special fox - rest in peace little Frodo :-(

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  3. So sad when a much loved animal leaves us - do foxes go to the Rainbow Bridge too?

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  4. so sad - been to see him many times. Bye Frodo - you will be missed x

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  5. So sorry to hear this, have some wonderful photos of him. He was so obviously happy to perform for his adoring audience, and had a wonderful life doing just that. RIP Frodo you will be missed but with happy memories.

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  6. A great character and first animal I always looked for on entry. Almost like he was welcoming all visitors on arrival......I shall miss him.

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  7. A life well lived, but he will be missed in Canada too! How are his foxy buddies doing without him?

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    1. Hi Heather,

      I think they are aware he is 'missing', but are coping ok. Thank you for asking. Flo is still a star and comes out to see everyone, and now the pressure is on Frodo's son... Dobby... to take his mantle.

      Matt

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  8. Very sad news. He was beautiful in every way!

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  9. His picture is the wallpaper on my phone and tablet. A beautiful fox. RIP.

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  10. 13, He must have been a very contented animal. He had a good home Matt.

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  11. Run free, gorgeous Mr Frodo. You will be missed!

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  12. Very sad to hear about Frodo. I am wondering if the photos I took on my website were of him? Could somebody tell me? http://www.naomistolow.com/british-wildlife.html

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    1. Hello,

      Top left is Frodo, the others are all Flo.

      Matt

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  13. So sorry to hear about Frodo, Matt. He was a very special fox and will be very much missed by all who knew him

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  14. Let's not be sad that he has gone but be happy we knew him and be happy that he was loved.

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  15. Thank you all for your kind comments, he will be missed, but it is lovely to see all the tributes to him from you all popping up over the internet.

    Thank you.
    Matt

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