Jimothy the raccoon survived against the odds, a testament to sophisticated brains and devoted mothers

A Seattle raccoon named Jimothy has become an internet sensation—and for a compelling reason. According to The Conversation, Jimothy appears to have short spine syndrome, a rare genetic condition that shortened his body and curved his spine. Yet he's thrived in the wild despite these odds. Raccoons are equipped with remarkably sophisticated brains: they have neuron density rivaling small primates, and their forepaws are exceptionally dexterous—occupying a large portion of their motor cortex much like a human hand. But Jimothy's survival owes just as much to his mother. Raccoon mothers are devoted single parents who remain engaged with their young for up to nine months, actively teaching them survival skills—how to collapse their spines to slip through tight spaces, how to forage and hunt. Videos of adult Jimothy navigating fences and exploring his world suggest that his mother's patient investment in a kit with special needs paid off handsomely.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton