Overview
- A short Instagram clip of the rotund raccoon filmed in mid-July by Seattle resident Kiana Hall quickly spread online and drew dozens of user-submitted videos and photos.
- Veterinary experts have told reporters the animal likely has a congenital short-spine deformity but that a formal diagnosis would require an exam.
- Observers and vets say Jimothy appears able to move and feed on his own, which suggests the animal is coping in the wild despite its unusual shape.
- The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says it has received no formal reports and is advising residents not to feed, capture or otherwise interfere with the raccoon.
- Fans have created art and social posts celebrating Jimothy but local reporters and experts warn that attention can increase risks for urban wildlife and that short-spine conditions vary in outcome depending on nerve and spine health.