‘Zombie Squirrels’ With Oozing Warts Spotted Across US Backyards

Across various neighborhoods in the United States, homeowners have reported sightings of squirrels suffering from a distressing and unsightly condition. Often described by witnesses as "zombie squirrels," these rodents are being spotted with large, protruding, and sometimes oozing growths covering their bodies. While the sight is undoubtedly alarming to those observing from their kitchen windows, wildlife biologists emphasize that the condition is usually caused by a virus rather than a supernatural phenomenon.

The growths appearing on these squirrels are identified as squirrel fibromas, which are caused by the squirrel fibroma virus. This poxvirus is relatively common among wild squirrel populations, particularly in North America. The virus manifests as round, firm, and occasionally raw-looking tumors that can appear anywhere on the animal's skin, including around the eyes, ears, and limbs. In severe cases, these warts can grow large enough to obstruct the animal’s vision or hinder its ability to feed and move efficiently, which is likely why observers describe their behavior as lethargic or "zombie-like."

According to wildlife experts, the virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. Because these insects are most active during the warmer months, sightings of afflicted squirrels often spike during late summer and early autumn. While the visual impact of the disease is gruesome, experts note that the vast majority of infected squirrels do not die from the virus. Instead, their immune systems often successfully fight off the infection, causing the tumors to regress and fall off over time, eventually leaving the squirrel to recover fully.

Public health officials and wildlife agencies advise that there is generally no need for alarm. Squirrel fibroma is highly host-specific, meaning it rarely jumps to other species. There is currently no evidence that this specific virus poses a significant health risk to humans or common household pets like dogs and cats. However, the standard advice for any encounter with wild animals remains in place: do not attempt to touch, feed, or capture an animal that appears to be sick. Handling a wild animal, regardless of its health, can lead to bites or scratches, which carry their own set of medical risks, including the potential for bacterial infections.

For those concerned about the wildlife in their own backyards, experts suggest maintaining clean environments. Ensuring that bird feeders are kept sanitary and that water sources are refreshed regularly can help prevent the spread of parasites like fleas and mosquitoes, which act as the primary vectors for the virus. If a resident finds a squirrel that is clearly suffering or unable to move, they are encouraged to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal control agency rather than attempting to intervene themselves. These professionals are trained to assess the animal's condition and determine if humane intervention is necessary.

While the sight of "zombie squirrels" might seem like a scene from a horror film, it serves as a reminder of the complex and sometimes harsh realities of the natural world. As human development continues to expand into wildlife habitats, the visibility of these natural biological processes becomes more frequent. Understanding that these growths are a natural, albeit unpleasant, part of the squirrel life cycle can help mitigate fear and foster a more informed approach to living alongside local wildlife.

Consult a healthcare professional regarding any concerns about contact with wild animals or potential health risks.