Palmerston, former Foreign Office Chief Mouser, dies in Bermuda

Published: 05 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Palmerston, the celebrated Chief Mouser to the Foreign Office, has passed away in Bermuda, where he had retired after years of service in London. Known for his sleek black coat, keen hunting skills, and an air of diplomatic poise, Palmerston became a familiar figure in the corridors of power, charming staff, diplomats, and visitors alike.

Arriving at the Foreign Office in 2016, Palmerston quickly established himself as more than a pest-control officer. While his primary duty was to keep the historic Whitehall building free of mice, his playful antics and striking personality earned him a unique place in British public life. Social media followers celebrated his occasional mischief, while journalists frequently featured him as the unofficial feline face of British diplomacy.

During his tenure, Palmerston’s interactions with other famous cats in London, including his rivals in neighbouring government departments, occasionally made headlines. Images of diplomatic “showdowns” between him and fellow mouser Larry at 10 Downing Street were widely shared, making him a minor celebrity beyond Whitehall.

After retiring, Palmerston moved to Bermuda, where he enjoyed a quieter life far from the bustle of London politics. Staff who worked alongside him recall a cat with a strong personality, an unerring hunting instinct, and an uncanny ability to appear exactly when morale needed a lift. “He wasn’t just a cat, he was part of the family here,” one long-serving Foreign Office official said. “Palmerston had a way of making people smile, even during the busiest of days.”

His death marks the end of an era for the Foreign Office’s feline tradition, which has long been celebrated for its unusual blend of history, tradition, and a touch of whimsy. Since the early 20th century, the office has maintained cats as Chief Mousers to keep the historic building free from rodents, with each cat often achieving their own loyal following.

Tributes have poured in from staff, former colleagues, and cat enthusiasts around the world. Many have highlighted not just his hunting abilities but the morale-boosting presence he provided in one of Britain’s most high-profile government offices. Palmerston’s legacy will be remembered as much for his personality as for his service.

The Foreign Office confirmed that a small memorial would be held in Bermuda for staff who had worked with him, celebrating a career that combined diligence, charm, and a uniquely British sense of feline diplomacy.

Palmerston’s passing reminds the world of the lighter side of government life, where even amidst complex international negotiations, a cat with character could capture hearts, provide companionship, and leave an indelible mark on those who crossed his path.

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