As a neuroscientist who studies raccoon and rats, I see the viral story of Jimothy the raccoon as a compelling tale of an animal overcoming disability and surviving in the wild. Up to half of young kits die without emerging from the natal den. Very few studies have been conducted on the raccoon brain, but my lab’s limited research has revealed the neuroarchitecture of a complex and sophisticated brain. Unlike many mammals whose young become independent soon after weaning, raccoon mothers continue taking care of their kits for much longer. It’s apparent that Jimothy’s mother was no exception to the prototypical raccoon mother – serving as nurturer, protector and teacher.