Commuters traveling through South King County received an unexpected dose of local wildlife entertainment when two adventurous raccoons were spotted perched comfortably above the ticketing signage at Star Lake Station in Federal Way. Early morning transit riders heading toward the Link light rail platform noticed the masked duo lounging on the structural overhang framing the automated ticket vending machines. The surprising sighting quickly turned into a viral moment across local social media platforms, as commuters paused their morning routines to capture photos and videos of the unbothered urban wildlife before tapping their ORCA cards.
Located near Interstate 5 and South 272nd Street along the Federal Way Link Extension corridor, Star Lake Station serves as a major transit hub connecting residents across Federal Way, Kent, and Des Moines. Given the station’s proximity to surrounding greenbelts, forested patches, and suburban park-and-ride areas, native wildlife frequently roams nearby. Finding two raccoons casually perched several feet above an active ticketing kiosk left transit riders both amused and surprised, with many dubbed the furry duo as the official “fare inspectors” of Federal Way.
Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are remarkably adaptable urban mammals that thrive in built environments across the Puget Sound region. Known for their intelligence, dexterous paws, and climbing abilities, raccoons routinely seek out high, sheltered ledges during morning hours to rest safely away from foot traffic and potential predators. Wildlife experts note that modern concrete transit structures and covered sign overhangs provide ideal elevated resting spots that mimic high tree branches found in native woodland habitats.
Transit personnel confirmed that the animal visitors did not cause any disruption to train arrivals, ticketing systems, or passenger safety. Sound Transit protocols ensure that wildlife wandering into public station areas is monitored safely, with humane relocation or deterrence measures utilized if animals become trapped or present hazards. For local commuters, the brief appearance provided a lighthearted, uniquely memorable start to the workday, proving that even a routine trip to the light rail station can deliver a classic Pacific Northwest wildlife moment.
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