Mother's Love

The story behind this print

Meet ‘Granny’, the first fox I ever photographed in the wild and perhaps the most photographed fox in all of Ireland. She was at least 11 years old when she left us – I know this because another photographer first photographed her 11 years earlier, long before I ever knew of this wilderness haven right in the middle of the city.

She had a long and happy life by all accounts, nestled safely on the opposite bank of the river, far from the perils of the city streets. Adoring fans came from far and wide for an audience, myself included. She was the reason I first came to this stretch of the River Dodder a place I have been returning to ever since, every chance I get.

I will never forget the first time I saw her – her head popping up over the thick foliage in response to some sound or smell. Slowly she made her way down to the bank for a drink then made her way back to a sunny spot for a snooze.

I have watched with delight over the last four years as this little cub grew up and started her own family. I love how she looks to the viewer while her mother stands protectively behind her scanning all around for any hint of danger.