In the animal realm, see the rise of the 'verminfluencers'

Raccoons are also known as 'trash pandas' on social media. - AFP

Forget dogs, cats and rabbits. The Internet's latest mascots are not known for their cuteness – quite the contrary. In fact, they are considered pests in many countries around the world. Yet these beasts still draw thousands, even millions, of followers on social networks.

Welcome to the age of the "verminfluencers".