After earlier panic over “zombie rabbits” with strange tumors, a new and equally disturbing warning has emerged—this time involving squirrels. Homeowners across the U.S. are reporting sightings of squirrels with disturbing skin conditions: leaking sores, wart-like lumps, and disfigured faces that look straight out of a horror movie.
From Backyard Favorites to Nightmare Fuel
To most people, squirrels are the lovable acrobats of the neighborhood—darting from tree to tree, their bushy tails flicking in the wind. But now, viral photos and videos on Reddit and Facebook show a more terrifying side: squirrels covered in grotesque lumps and lesions.
One concerned Reddit user shared a photo of a squirrel in late July, saying at first they thought the animal had food on its face—until they realized the mass was part of its skin. “Any idea what’s going on with this little guy?” they asked.
The Shocking Truth: Squirrel Pox
Wildlife experts say the likely cause is a naturally occurring virus known as squirrel pox, or fibromatosis. While it might be new to many people, it’s not uncommon—and it’s as unpleasant as it sounds.
In 2023, Maine residents began reporting sightings of squirrels with swollen, scaly growths and open sores. Wildlife biologist Shevenell Webb, with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, confirmed the virus’s presence and urged the public not to interfere.
“It’s a naturally occurring disease, and it usually runs its course,” Webb said. “But I would not recommend anyone try to capture a squirrel with visible symptoms.”
The disease is most commonly spread through mosquito bites or close contact at feeding stations—much like how illnesses spread in crowded human environments. Webb explained: “It’s like when a lot of people gather. If someone is sick and it spreads easily, others are going to catch it.”
What Does It Do to the Squirrels?
While the disfigurements look disturbing, the disease is not necessarily fatal. Infected squirrels often survive unless the growths interfere with their ability to eat, see, or move. Still, the appearance is unsettling—leading many to nickname them “zombie squirrels.”
“For the most part, squirrels with pox are just really ugly to look at,” Webb added.
Even More Disturbing Possibilities
Not all the lumps are caused by squirrel pox. At Evelyn’s Wildlife Refuge, staff have also encountered squirrels with odd skin swellings caused by botfly larvae—parasitic insects that burrow under the skin. Their warning was direct: “Only trained wildlife rehabilitators or veterinarians should attempt to remove bots.”
Still, the rise in infected squirrel sightings—from Maine to Virginia—has created a ripple of concern on social media. One shocked Twitter user wrote:
“Zombie squirrels?! Seriously?!”
Another shared a heartbreaking photo of a squirrel whose face was completely overtaken by growths:
“Can grey squirrels survive squirrel pox? I’m starting to see a few with early symptoms in my backyard.”
Can It Spread to Humans or Pets?
Thankfully, no. According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and other state agencies, squirrel pox is species-specific. Humans, cats, and dogs cannot catch it. In extremely rare cases, domestic rabbits could be at risk—but it’s uncommon.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources added that “the virus is typically characterized by wart-like growths or fibromas on the skin,” and again confirmed that mosquitoes are likely the main transmitters.
There’s Still Hope
While many of the images online are hard to look at, not all infected squirrels are doomed. Some even make full recoveries. One wildlife enthusiast shared a hopeful update online:
“He beat the worst squirrel pox I’ve ever seen and is recovering well. Bad scars, but full function—and he’s even socializing again!”
What Should You Do If You See One?
Experts strongly advise not to touch or attempt to rescue an infected squirrel. If you’re concerned about the animals in your area, take down your bird feeders to reduce gatherings, and let nature take its course.
In the meantime, as unsettling as the idea of “zombie squirrels” may be, the best action we can take is to stay informed, respect wildlife, and avoid unnecessary contact—because even the smallest creatures deserve their space to heal.
