Raccoons Don’t Really Wash Their Food

Raccoons exhibit a behavior called dousing, which resembles washing food. Initially thought to be a cleaning action, it's now believed to be more about enhancing their tactile sensitivity. This behavior is primarily observed in captivity, where raccoons dip food in water. A 1963 study showed that raccoons douse food regardless of its cleanliness, suggesting it's not about cleaning. Hypotheses include enhancing sensitivity or an instinctual compulsion. Recent research supports the idea that wetting their paws increases sensitivity, aiding in food assessment. Dousing might be a fixed action pattern, similar to other instinctual behaviors in animals.

What is the primary reason raccoons are observed dousing their food in captivity?

• To enhance the sensitivity of their paws

• To cool down the food

• To make the food taste better

• To clean their food

What did the 1963 study reveal about raccoons' preference for dousing muddy versus clean food?

• They showed no preference

• They preferred muddy food

• They avoided both

• They preferred clean food

According to the 1963 study, what was one hypothesis about why raccoons douse their food?

• To increase the food's temperature

• To make it easier to swallow

• To improve the taste

• To remove toxins

What might trigger the instinctual compulsion for raccoons to douse their food in captivity?

• Lack of food variety

• High temperature of the water

• Presence of other animals

• Presence of a sandy bottom in the water dish

How is the dousing behavior of raccoons in captivity similar to the behavior of cats?

• Both involve washing food

• Both are used to cool down food

• Both are methods to communicate with humans

• Both are related to hunting instincts