Chicago's Viral 'Rat Hole' Likely a Squirrel's Legacy, Researchers Confirm
Researchers have debunked the popular belief that Chicago's viral "rat hole" sidewalk impression was made by a rat, concluding an Eastern gray squirrel is the most probable creator.
'Chicago Rat Hole' was not made by a rat, say rodent researchers
Chicago Sun-Times
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Overview
- A unique impression in a Chicago sidewalk, dubbed the "rat hole," gained significant viral attention and became a local attraction in January 2024.
- Initially, many believed the full-body impression was left by a rat trapped in wet cement, sparking public interest and online discussion.
- However, researchers conducted a study to determine the true origin of the famous sidewalk landmark, analyzing its distinct features.
- Their findings strongly suggest that the impression was not made by a rat, but rather by a different, unlucky critter.
- The Eastern gray squirrel emerged as the most probable suspect, with a 98.67% probability, debunking the long-held "rat hole" theory.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally, focusing on the scientific findings that debunk the "Chicago Rat Hole" as a rat imprint. They present the research methodology and conclusions clearly, alongside the cultural phenomenon, without injecting editorial bias or loaded language. The reporting maintains an objective, informative tone throughout.
"Researchers propose that the specimen be rechristened the ‘Windy City Sidewalk Squirrel’ — a name more fitting of its likely origins and more aligned with the evidence at hand."
Chicago Tribune"The scientific community shouldn’t be afraid to write these types of articles; we should be having fun with science."
Chicago Sun-Times"Researchers propose that the specimen be rechristened the ‘Windy City Sidewalk Squirrel’ — a name more fitting of its likely origins and more aligned with the evidence at hand."
Associated Press"The Chicago Rat Hole was probably made by a squirrel."
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FAQ
Researchers compared the characteristics of the sidewalk impression with data about local rodent populations and determined with 98.67% probability that an Eastern gray squirrel made the imprint. This conclusion was based on scientific analysis published in the journal Biology Letters.
The sidewalk impression, which had existed for decades, went viral after Chicago artist and comedian Winslow Dumaine posted about it on social media in January 2024, drawing many visitors who brought coins and offerings, making it a local attraction.
The site inspired pilgrimages, proposals, and even a wedding, with people treating it like a shrine by leaving objects and offerings, despite some neighbors’ chagrin and attempts to fill the hole in.
Since scientific analysis revealed that the imprint was most likely made by an Eastern gray squirrel, researchers proposed renaming it to better reflect its true origin and to promote appreciation of scientific inquiry.
The researchers intended to highlight the importance and accessibility of the scientific method, encouraging people to view science as approachable and applicable in everyday life.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.