Alarming Sightings of “Zombie Squirrels” Across the U.S.
Disturbing images of squirrels with swollen faces, wart-like growths, and oozing sores are surfacing online, alarming people across the U.S. Shared widely on Reddit and Facebook, the photos sparked concern. One user posted, “Any ideas what is going on with this little fella?” after spotting a squirrel with a large facial mass.
Experts have identified the condition as squirrel pox (or fibromatosis), a naturally occurring virus in squirrel populations. Wildlife biologist Shevenell Webb noted, “It is naturally occurring and will run its course in time,” but strongly advised against approaching infected squirrels: “I would not recommend trying to capture a squirrel that has the virus.”
The disease spreads through close contact or mosquito bites, often at bird or squirrel feeders. “It’s like when you get a large concentration of people… others are going to catch it,” said Webb.
Online, users dubbed the creatures “zombie squirrels.” Some symptoms may also be caused by botfly larvae, which should only be removed by trained wildlife rehabbers or veterinarians.
