Chicago Rat Hole: Scientists Debunk Rat Origin Story
- Here's a summary of the article, focusing on the key information:
- The "Chicago Rat Hole" is likely a squirrel imprint, not a rat's.
- * A uniquely shaped indent in a Chicago sidewalk went viral in early 2024, attracting visitors who left coins and offerings.It was dubbed the "Chicago Rat Hole."...
Here’s a summary of the article, focusing on the key information:
The “Chicago Rat Hole” is likely a squirrel imprint, not a rat’s.
* A uniquely shaped indent in a Chicago sidewalk went viral in early 2024, attracting visitors who left coins and offerings.It was dubbed the “Chicago Rat Hole.”
* A new study, published in Biology Letters, suggests the imprint was most likely made by a squirrel, not a rat. Researchers compared the hole’s characteristics to local rodent populations.
* The hole itself had been there for decades, but gained popularity after being posted about on X (formerly Twitter) by artist Winslow Dumaine.
* Study lead author Michael Granatosky initially assumed it was a rat hole, but emphasized the importance of scientific examination over assumptions.
* Dumaine believes the “rat hole” label contributed to its viral popularity, suggesting squirrels aren’t as visually appealing in the public eye.