Famous dead Toronto raccoon just got a permanent memorial

Conrad the Raccoon, the most famous raccoon to ever live (and die) in Toronto, now has a plaque commemorating his heartbreaking death, ten years on.

If you find yourself stumbling along the sidewalk at Church and Yonge, keep your eyes peeled for the official unofficial marker of little Conrad, placed right at his final resting spot. 

Conrad is, of course, the famed raccoon that started the #DeadRaccoonTO tag after his lifeless body baked in the sun for 14 long hours before being scooped away by the city, way back in 2015. Conrad's demise sparked visits from locals, leaving behind flowers, candles, photographs, and even a donation box that formed a growing memorial.

Now, with the tenth anniversary of his death in the rear-view, Heritage Toronto has erected a plaque celebrating his life, reminding pedestrians that his memory always lives on in our hearts.

The plaque details Conrad's final day in the city, touching on the social media sensation's ability to bring residents together, before diving into a little bit of the history of trash pandas.

Providing some knowledge on the raccoon's history — also called esibanag in Anishinaabemowin — the plaque indicates the word "raccoon" has been traced back to the British colonization of Virginia and derives from words spoken by members of the Powhatan Confederacy in Algonquin.

Heritage Toronto also provides some fun facts about these critters, explaining how well they have adapted to city life and prefer to chill out in attics, sheds, and human-made structures that are similar to their natural homes of hollow tree trunks.

"Estimates suggest there may be more than 50,000 raccoons living in Toronto. Their resourcefulness, resilience, and cheeky personalities have contributed to their reputation as the unofficial mascots of Toronto," finishes the sign.

Pay your respects to sweet Conrad at his commemorative plaque today and get caught up on some trash panda facts. And as always, we love and miss you, Conrad!