Movie Stars Update: Meet Monroe and Hepburn
A Hollywood Rescue: From the Silver Screen to Sanctuary
In July 2023, Critter Care Wildlife Society received two special arrivals — Monroe and Hepburn, two raccoons rescued from the movie industry. Unfortunately, their time in the spotlight wasn’t glamorous. They were kept in poor living conditions, which led the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) to intervene, and we were more than happy to offer
them a forever home.
Sisters with Star Quality
Monroe and Hepburn are not just any raccoons; they are true sisters in both appearance and personality. With their nearly identical coats and rare light brown eyes, they stand out even among their fellow raccoons. These girls have been with us for nearly two years now, and they’re here to stay, bringing a touch of old Hollywood charm to Critter Care.
Names That Fit the Drama
We chose their names carefully, inspired by two iconic Hollywood legends. Monroe and Hepburn are nothing short of dramatic themselves. From rifling through pockets and stealing snacks to throwing the occasional tantrum, they have all the flair of true starlets. Yet, beneath the theatrics, they are affectionate, often seen grooming one another, snuggling in their cozy bed, or enjoying chin and belly scratches from their caretakers.
Enrichment Fit for Stars
As captive raccoons, Monroe and Hepburn require plenty of enrichment to keep them healthy and happy. Their enclosure is a raccoon paradise, complete with a ball pit, a sensory board, and puzzle feeders. These tools keep them engaged and allow them to express their natural behaviors, which is vital for their well-being.
Their diet is carefully managed with a special captive raccoon formula, ensuring they get all the necessary nutrients without gaining excess weight. Our team works hard to provide them with variety, and they repay us with their endless curiosity and playful antics.
Telling Them Apart: Personality and Style
Monroe and Hepburn may look alike, but we’ve learned to tell them apart through their unique features and behaviours. Hepburn is the larger of the two, with a wide face, long whiskers, and a natural knack for the camera — a true silver screen star. Monroe has a distinctive white spot above her eye, like Marilyn Monroe’s signature beauty mark, and a slightly slimmer face.
Their personalities are just as distinct. Monroe is a fan of tug-of-war and loves diving into the ball pit, while Hepburn is more of a climber. She often perches on the shoulders of her caretakers and is much more vocal, expressing her joy with cheerful trills, especially when the sun is shining.
A Joy to Care For
Having Monroe and Hepburn at Critter Care has been an absolute delight. They bring laughter, excitement, and even a bit of drama to our daily routine. Our team has learned so much about raccoon behaviour and specialized care thanks to these two stars, and we look forward to many more years of joy with them.
Stay tuned for more updates on Monroe and Hepburn and their adventures in our care!
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