Recent reports have surfaced about a squirrel, riddled with pus and what appear to be wart-like tumors, spotted darting through a backyard in the United States.
These unsettling grey squirrels, seen in Maine and various Canadian provinces, are showing odd symptoms like hairless patches and oozy sores. A report mentioned that social media users on platforms like Reddit and X have been sharing their reactions to these bizarre creatures.
While photos and accounts of these afflicted squirrels began circulating in mid-2023, they’ve gained even more attention this summer.
“At first, I thought I was looking at something leftover from my last meal, but then I realized it was a squirrel with a big tumor on its face,” recounted one Reddit user on July 31.
Some have playfully labeled these squirrels as “zombilis,” although wildlife experts believe the animals are more likely suffering from squirrel fibromatosis.
This particular virus spreads through direct contact—think of it like how human herpes transmits—between a healthy squirrel and one with affected lesions or saliva. While the condition isn’t common in the U.S., it’s worth noting that it’s seen more frequently in the UK, and it can be fatal to red squirrels.
The lepido-what’s-it virus leads to these fluid-filled wart tumors. While it usually resolves itself, in severe instances, it can impact internal organs and result in death.
Despite its alarming appearance, Shabel Webb from Maine’s Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Department reassured residents that these squirrels don’t pose any threat to humans, pets, or birds. So there’s no need to panic about encountering one.
“It’s like when a group of people is around and one is sick. If something spreads easily, others can catch it,” Webb explained.
The problem of “concentration” can be linked to bird feeders, which unintentionally attract multiple squirrels. Infected animals leave behind seeds that may contain saliva or other fluids, potentially exposing others to the virus.
“I mean, like a lot of folks, I enjoy watching birds,” Webb said. “But unfortunately, these feeders can also lure in more squirrels, increasing the risk of spreading the virus.”
While these “zombie” squirrels aren’t dangerous, experts emphasize that it’s best not to attempt to capture any infected animal.
“We really advise against trying to catch a squirrel that might have this virus,” Webb cautioned.
Reports indicate that the tumors typically clear up within 4 to 8 weeks.
Additionally, there’s a word of caution regarding another rapidly spreading virus, particularly affecting Colorado’s cotton-tail rabbits. These rabbits are developing black, tentacle-like spikes, a symptom of the Cotontoll Papilloma virus. It’s advised to avoid contact with any mutated animals exhibiting such features.
