The Denver Zoo is home to two remarkable albino raccoons, Pecan and Cashew, who have captured the hearts of visitors and animal enthusiasts alike. These rare and fascinating creatures were rescued in early 2021 and now reside in the zoo’s Harmony Hill exhibit, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the importance of coexisting with wildlife.
The Rescue and Arrival of Pecan and Cashew
Pecan and Cashew were rescued by Sonflower Ranch and Rescue after a homeowner discovered a family of raccoons living in their wall. Due to their leucism, a genetic condition that causes partial pigment loss, the two raccoons were unlikely to survive in the wild. In October 2021, the Denver Zoo welcomed the pair, and they were initially quarantined at the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital before being cleared to move to their new habitat at Harmony Hill.
Interacting with the Curious Pair
The animal care staff at the Denver Zoo have been working closely with Pecan and Cashew, and the two raccoons have proven to be quite curious and social. Pecan, the more outgoing of the two, is confident and has a slightly darker fur coat than her sister, Cashew. Cashew, on the other hand, is more selective when it comes to her food and often waits to see if her keepers have any treats before exploring her habitat.
The Significance of Albino Raccoons at Denver Zoo
The presence of albino raccoons at the Denver Zoo is significant in terms of educating visitors about the importance of coexisting with wildlife. Harmony Hill, where the raccoons reside, is designed to showcase how humans can better coexist with wildlife, whether in the wild or in their own backyard. Pecan and Cashew, with their unique appearance, serve as an excellent example of a species that can be lived alongside, highlighting their contributions to the ecosystem and how humans can live in harmony with wildlife.
Visiting the Denver Zoo Albino Raccoons
If you’re planning a visit to the Denver Zoo, be sure to add the Harmony Hill exhibit to your itinerary to catch a glimpse of Pecan and Cashew. The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission prices vary depending on age, residency, and membership status, but general admission ranges from $15 to $25 for adults and $10 to $20 for children.
To plan your visit or for more information, you can contact the Denver Zoo at (720) 337-1400.
References
- CBS News. (2023). Sisters celebrate International Raccoon Day at the Denver Zoo. https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/sisters-celebrate-international-raccoon-day-denver-zoo/
- Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Animals at Denver Zoo. https://denverzoo.org/animals/
- YouTube. (2022). Denver Zoo Welcomes Two New Rescued Raccoons – YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynrHtuToO20
- Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Denver Zoo Welcomes Two Rescued Raccoons. https://denverzoo.planmylegacy.org/impact-stories/pecan-and-cashew
- YouTube. (2022). Leucistic Raccoons Pecan and Cashew Enjoy a Salad – YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhQHB2oMkbY