The Big Story

How Toronto lost its war with raccoons. Badly.

Nov 3, 2024
Amy Dempsey, a senior writer at The Toronto Star and raccoon expert, hilariously details how Toronto went from having rare sightings of raccoons to being home to the world's most notorious trash pandas. She recounts amusing historical skirmishes, particularly the 1965 Clinton Street confrontation, and how community perceptions have evolved. Dempsey also highlights the ongoing challenges of coexistence, showcasing a mix of cultural affection and practical frustrations with these clever scavengers.
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