Fact of the week: Cleanliness is next to godliness

Ever heard of the washing bear? No. Well, that is the scientific name of the raccoon. The German name as well but that is another story.

Why washing bear? Because raccoons are known to wash their food before eating. Except that they do not wash the food. 

Just because the raccoon brings food to be massaged in water does not mean it is washing a thing. Food gets "massaged" and eaten whether there is a water supply available. 

Do you smell food before you eat it? 

The raccoon is actually using its paws to feel the food before eating. And water makes those nerves more sensitive.