Human trash is 'kick-starting' the domestication of city-dwelling raccoons, study suggests

Live ScienceWednesday, November 19, 2025 at 8:51:40 PM
PositiveScience
Human trash is 'kick-starting' the domestication of city-dwelling raccoons, study suggests
  • Urban raccoons are exhibiting shorter snouts, a trait linked to early domestication, as they adapt to environments influenced by human presence.
  • This adaptation may signify a significant evolutionary shift for raccoons, reflecting their increasing reliance on human habitats for food and survival.
  • The findings highlight broader themes of urban wildlife adaptation, raising questions about the impact of human activity on animal evolution and the dynamics of coexistence in urban ecosystems.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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