08/19/2025
⚠️ Warning: Wildlife experts have issued an alert after reports of so-called “zombie squirrels” across the US. These squirrels have been spotted with severe sores, warts, and lumps caused by squirrel pox, a naturally occurring viral disease. While the condition makes the animals look disturbing and zombie-like, experts stress that it is harmless to humans and usually runs its course in the animals themselves.
The virus spreads easily among squirrels, especially at bird feeders where saliva is shared, making them hotspots for infection. Biologists advise people to avoid handling infected squirrels and to keep feeders clean to reduce the risk of spread. In rare cases, the disease can be fatal for squirrels if it spreads internally, but most recover naturally.
These sightings may be shocking, but the “zombie squirrel” phenomenon is not a threat to people — it’s a reminder of how wildlife diseases spread in close contact environments.
