Unsettling “Zombie Squirrels” Spotted Across the U.S.
In recent months, reports have surfaced about gray squirrels appearing in backyards across the United States, sporting strange, unsettling tumors that many social media users have dubbed “zombie squirrels.” Sightings have been notably highlighted on platforms like Reddit and X, with photos showcasing these animals afflicted with oozing sores and hairless patches, particularly in states like Maine.
This phenomenon has turned into a widespread concern, with many people noticing something amiss with their local squirrel populations. In fact, discussions and images of these unusual squirrels have surged this summer, raising questions about their health and safety.
Experts believe these creatures are likely suffering from a condition known as squirrel fibromatosis. This viral skin disease, caused by a specific virus called leporipoxvirus, leads to the appearance of wart-like tumors filled with fluid. Although alarming at first sight, wildlife professionals emphasize that these squirrels do not pose any threat to humans, pets, or other wildlife.
The transmission of the virus is primarily through direct contact—either through lesions or saliva—from infected to healthy squirrels. This method of spread is reminiscent of how certain viruses can be transmitted among humans, particularly when individuals gather in close quarters and one is carrying an infection. Squirrels might inadvertently pass the virus around, especially in areas where food sources like bird feeders attract multiple animals.
“It’s similar to when people congregate in large groups,” mentioned Shevenell Webb from Maine’s Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. “If one is sick, others may catch it too.” Bird feeders can be particularly problematic, as they can gather numerous squirrels who may come into contact with contaminated saliva or fluids left on uneaten seeds.
Wildlife experts encourage residents to continue enjoying birdwatching while being cautious: “While I love watching birds too, we must remember that feeding them can unintentionally attract multiple squirrels to our yards, increasing the risk of spreading the virus,” Webb stated.
Despite these concerns, the tumors typically resolve on their own within a timeframe of four to eight weeks. Experts advocate for leaving the squirrels alone as they heal. “It is important not to intervene or attempt to capture a squirrel that appears sick; it’s a natural occurrence, and they will recover in due time,” Webb advised.
This situation is reminiscent of other animal diseases affecting wildlife in various locations. For instance, cottontail rabbits in Colorado are experiencing a separate health crisis, growing mysterious black, tentacle-like spikes from their heads due to a different viral infection known as cottontail papilloma virus.
While the state of wildlife can sometimes appear alarming, the key takeaway here is that these viral outbreaks, while they may seem severe, do not typically result in a threat to human health. It’s essential to remain informed and cautious, and to understand that nature has its own way of dealing with such phenomena.
In the end, as unsettling as the sight of a “zombie squirrel” may be, these little creatures are part of the natural landscape, and most will recover with time. Observers are reminded to keep a respectful distance and allow nature to run its course.
