Viral raccoon Jimothy spotted in Ballard
Oct 6, 2026, 11:41 AM
Jimothy, the viral deformed raccoon that has become a national celebrity, was recently spotted in a North Seattle neighborhood.
Jimothy was seen climbing on a fence in Ballard. The video was posted on Facebook by KIRO 7, showing the raccoon making his way through the residential neighborhood.
He was captured walking across the fence between houses before settling on a roof.
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Jimothy adapts to life in Ballard amid viral fame
The Jimothy craze started in July after a video of the raccoon drew hundreds of thousands of views and countless reposts.
Many online joked that the animal, with his compact body, closely spaced front and back legs, and head perched high above his shoulders, looked as though he had been “scrunched together like an accordion.”
Since the original video was posted, Ballard residents have reported seeing Jimothy wandering across backyard decks, drinking from a dog’s water bowl, and sitting in neighborhood trees.
A veterinarian who saw the original video told KIRO 7 the animal appeared to have a congenital condition known as short spine syndrome, a rare disorder documented in other mammals. The condition shortens the spine and limits neck and body flexibility.
Wildlife officials said the raccoon appeared capable of walking, climbing, and finding food on his own. Neighbors concurred that despite his unusual appearance, Jimothy seemed to be adapting well to life in Ballard.
Jimothy’s viral fame inspires Seattle’s ‘Jimothy Summer’ proclamation
Jimothy’s resilience resonated with the Seattle community, inspiring affection that soon led to official recognition from city leaders.
On July 27, Jimothy was honored with an official city proclamation. Seattle Councilmembers Alexis Mercedes Rinck and Dan Strauss officially proclaimed the season “Jimothy Summer.”
With his overnight fame, wildlife officials worry fans may try to capture the raccoon. They reminded people to admire Jimothy from a distance and avoid approaching or feeding him.
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