Screengrab via c1vrgr1 / Instagram.
The recent viral video of a raccoon named Jimothy has shown that people across North America connect emotionally to and feel protective of wildlife. And it’s a good time to talk about how to make sure Jimothy – and other wildlife – stay safe.
Who is Jimothy?
Jimothy, a raccoon living in a Seattle, Washington neighbourhood, has an unusual appearance – a compact, unusually round body giving him a distinctly spherical or barrel-shaped look. Despite his silhouette, Jimothy appears to be otherwise healthy, according to media-interviewed wildlife experts, who caution that he cannot be diagnosed from video alone. Though no veterinarians have physically examined him, and there has been no determination that he needs intervention or is unable to care for himself, it is possible he may have a congenital spinal deformity.
Why is He So Popular?
While raccoons are common across much of the United States and Canada, Jimothy’s small stature, unique look and perceived struggle may cause people to feel not just amused by him, but protective, too. The empathy and compassion felt by the public is wonderful, and well-intentioned. Caring about wildlife, however, often means knowing to not approach, feed, attempt to capture or try to rescue animals.
Viral Attention Risks
The biggest risk to Jimothy (outside of the normal risks faced by an urban raccoon) is the number of people who may try to find him. This could lead to:
- people crowding or pursuing him for photos;
- disclosure of his location;
- repeated disturbance of resting and feeding areas;
- attempts to touch, feed or capture him;
- increased interactions with dogs, traffic or frightened residents;
- conditioning to people and human-provided food.
When Intervention is Appropriate
Available footage shows Jimothy moving freely, running, climbing and otherwise navigating his environment. This doesn’t mean he’s perfectly healthy or free of suffering – but without immediate signs of distress or incapacity, intervention is likely unnecessary. Signs that may require a certified or licensed wildlife rehabilitator to help include:
- inability to stand or move normally;
- an obvious fresh injury;
- persistent disorientation or collapse;
- severe respiratory distress;
- being trapped or in immediate danger;
- an animal remaining unresponsive while people approach.
Only experts should make the determination and consider approaching wildlife in these situations. Please contact your local wildlife rehabilitator or animal control if you’re concerned about a nearby animal.
How to Love Jimothy – Safely
There’s nothing wrong with rooting for the underdog (or underraccoon), especially if you follow these tips:
- Observe from a distance.
- Do not disclose his precise location.
- Do not approach or chase him for photographs or video.
- Do not feed him.
- Keep dogs leashed and away.
- Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if clear signs of distress appear.
- Share responsible information rather than location details.
Wildlife can inspire connection without becoming accessible to us. The kindest response to an animal like Jimothy is restraint – giving him space, protecting his location, and allowing trained professionals (not online audiences) to determine when assistance is needed.
