Today is my first out of three contributions to the Grizzly Gazette Advent Calendar, and I chose to write about International Raccoon Appreciation Day, which is on October 1st! Not so winter themed, right? But for me it’s as holiday-ish as x-mas ;]

Soooo.. what is its origin and purpose, you may ask?

The day was initiated in 2002 by a girl in California who wanted to highlight the positive aspects like the ecological significance of raccoons!! It has since grown in popularity, with the term “international” added to reflect its broader acceptance.

I commemorate the day by supporting polish Szopowisko foundation, which provides shelter for raccoons that would be otherwise caught and killed because raccoons are considered as IAS (invasive alien species) in Europe. I also wish all my friends a merry international racc day to spread the word further.

Don’t hate on my furry friends! They are actively trying to domesticate themselves, just give them some time to act more human-friendly :]

Consider this your official invitation to celebrate in 2026! October 1st remember!!!🐾

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