‘Grumpy’ raccoon rescued from unusual — and gross — place in Arizona national forest

A raccoon was wandering the forest when he unexpectedly plunged into a less-than-ideal place, forest rangers said.

The raccoon was trapped in a toilet, officials in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in Arizona said.

“A raccoon recently found himself trapped in the toilet vault located at the Railroad Grade Trailhead,” the U.S. Forest Service said Monday, Jan. 10, on Facebook.

Forest employees helped the raccoon escape the pit by holding a large branch into the toilet, photos show. The raccoon emerged from the toilet safely.

“It has been rescued and is fine, just a tad grumpy,” rangers said. “Please remember to shut the toilet lid and door on your way out, wildlife can be attracted to the shelter.”

Animals can head to the buildings on cold days looking for a warm place to stay, the Forest Service said.

This story was originally published January 10, 2022 at 11:42 AM with the headline "‘Grumpy’ raccoon rescued from unusual — and gross — place in Arizona national forest."