Seattle Raccoon Jimothy Tops 10 Million Views as Short-Spine Video Sparks Global Craze
Updated
Updated · KUOW News and Information · Jul 17
Seattle Raccoon Jimothy Tops 10 Million Views as Short-Spine Video Sparks Global Craze
3 articles · Updated · KUOW News and Information · Jul 17
Summary
More than 10 million views have turned Jimothy — a Seattle raccoon with an unusually short spine — into a global online sensation after a brief Instagram video asked, “What am I looking at?”
Washington State University veterinarian Marcie Logsdon said his shape is likely caused by a congenital spinal deformity, but his appearance suggests he was probably born this year and has adapted well enough to survive.
Ballard sightings, a dedicated subreddit and fan-made merchandise have quickly followed, with “hot Jimothy summer,” artwork and even discounted Tacoma tattoos helping push the raccoon from local curiosity to pop-culture meme.
Seattle wildlife experts urged people not to seek him out or feed raccoons, saying Jimothy is best left alone and directing concerned residents to PAWS Wildlife Center for guidance.