Biologist Identifies 1 Raccoon With Rare Short Spine Syndrome From Instagram Video
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 23
Biologist Identifies 1 Raccoon With Rare Short Spine Syndrome From Instagram Video
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 23
Summary
Julian Avery spotted what he believes is a raccoon with short spine syndrome after examining an Instagram video of Seattle’s well-known raccoon Jimothy.
The rare spinal abnormality can give animals unusually short necks and tails, long-looking legs and a curved back—features Avery said he had never seen in a wild raccoon.
Jimothy’s appearance has drawn attention because the condition is better known from domestic animals, making the Seattle raccoon a notable possible wild case.