A homeowner in Tokyo discovered a bizarre hand reaching through their ceiling, only to find it belonged to a wild raccoon. According to Japanese media reports, a raccoon recently invaded a private residence in Tokyo. Due to their incredibly dexterous fingers, raccoons can dismantle objects to break into homes, and this one ended up breaking through the ceiling, extending its hand in a startling manner.
Experts warn that despite their cute appearance, raccoons can carry numerous pathogens, and caution against touching them. According to a report by the Japanese media outlet livedoornews, the resident stated that they often heard loud noises at night, and the raccoon's cries were very irritating, making it difficult to sleep. Video footage shows the extent of the damage, with the raccoon having torn a hole in the ceiling. When it senses a presence, it will reach its hand out, the pointed fingers looking somewhat frightening.
Although raccoons may appear adorable, experts caution that wild raccoons can carry various viruses, including rabies. If someone is scratched and infected due to being charmed by their looks, the consequences could be severe. Experts explain that raccoons can enter homes by dismantling ventilators and similar structures. It is best to avoid touching them unless absolutely necessary.
According to Wikipedia, raccoons do not have well-developed eyesight and rely on their sense of touch to identify objects. Despite being wild animals, raccoons are very well adapted to urban life. Some populations inhabit urban areas, and raccoons living in the suburbs often sneak into human residences to steal food. Their black stripes around the eyes give them the nickname "masked bandits."
【恐怖】天井から伸びる“白い手”...その正体とは?https://t.co/vGsQGexBqW
— ライブドアニュース (@livedoornews) February 13, 2025
その正体は、住居に侵入した「アライグマ」。害獣駆除業者は「本当に人間と同じ手をしている。換気扇みたいなものを外して入ってくる」と話す。また「一番怖いのは狂犬病」だと指摘し、むやみに近づかないよう注意を促した。 pic.twitter.com/aCwAge7YnA