Furries Back In Pittsburgh For 4-Day Anthrocon Convention

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The Anthrocon convention is back in town, opening a four-day weekend at David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

The "Furries," dressed in anthropomorphic costumes, have become a Pittsburgh tradition, though some guests at the Westin Hotel may find it hard to make heads or tails of what's going on.

Who chooses to don a furry persona?

Anthrocon spokes-human Dr. Samuel Conway has the answer.

"You will find here scientists; you will find police officers, firefighters, teachers, administrative assistants. Anybody you would see walking by the window of a downtown business office building is represented here," he said.

Those windows welcome the Furries with open paws.

VisitPittsburgh estimates some 6,000 fans of fur will spend $5.7 million over the four-day weekend. In addition, Anthrocon will donate part of its proceeds to the Humane Society of Western Pennsylvania.

The guest of honor this year is the San Diego Chicken, who burst onto the scene at a Padres game 41 years ago. But this is his first Anthrocon.

"All these people wear their hearts on the outside of their bodies," the "Chicken" says.

The San Diego Chicken did have one confession. He had breakfast with Dr. Conway, and ordered eggs.

"It helps eliminate the competition," he clucked. "If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em."

For more information on Anthrocon 2015, log on to http://anthrocon2015.sched.org/

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