8legs: University of arkansas at little rock

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Latest study finds urban raccoons show a clear reduction in snout length compared with rural counterparts.
Experts say longer-term domestication in raccoons is possible but they remain wild and not ideal pets.
Trash proximity is linked to adaptation, with humans’ waste drawing animals closer to urban areas.
Researchers note urban raccoons also show shorter legs and more fur color variations over time.
Study authors say domestic-like traits emerged under urban pressures, echoing patterns seen in other species.
Experts emphasize the species' wild status despite domestic-appearing traits developing in cities.
The study examined urban vs. rural raccoon populations to assess domestic-like changes.
Urban raccoons are more exposed to human interaction, potentially driving rapid adaptations.
The researchers compare raccoon changes to dog domestication history, illustrating a similar pathway.
Publication context notes the study was released after observing urban animal behavior shifts.

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Urban raccoons in the United States show physical changes, including shorter snouts, compared with rural counterparts.
Researchers analyzed nearly 20,000 iNaturalist photos to compare urban and rural raccoon populations.
Trash and close human presence may create selection pressures that favor tame raccoons in cities.
The study discusses the Neural Crest Domestication Syndrome as a potential explanation for observed changes.
The findings align with similar urban wildlife research on red foxes in London showing shorter, wider muzzles.
Experts caution that more evidence is needed to confirm a true domestication pathway for urban raccoons.
City life is described as a niche offering abundant food scraps and fewer predators, driving urban adaptation.
Raccoons that are bold enough to access resources but not aggressive may thrive in urban areas.
Arina Hinzen notes urban wildlife in New York City shows high habituation to people and environments.
The study’s findings are part of ongoing dialogue on how urbanization reshapes wildlife biology and behavior.
Researchers emphasize the need for additional studies to confirm whether urban raccoons are on a domestication path.

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