Mysterious Behavior in Squirrels Across North America: Understanding the “Zombie Squirrel” Phenomenon in Canada and the United States

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August 20, 2025

Concerning reports are emerging from regions across North america, including Maine and Canada, detailing sightings of Gray Squirrels afflicted by a disturbing illness. Images circulating on social media platforms like Reddit and X depict animals suffering from open wounds and significant hair loss, prompting comparisons to “zombie squirrels.”

What is Causing This Phenomenon?

Experts believe the animals are suffering from the effects of the Squirrel Fibroid Virus (SFV), a poxvirus responsible for causing variolation in squirrels. This virus manifests as wart-like tumors that can weep fluid,leading to the unsettling appearance described by witnesses. According to biodiversity specialists, the virus has been increasing in prevalence, notably this summer.

while the condition appears alarming, wildlife officials emphasize that the Squirrel Fibroid Virus typically doesn’t pose a threat to Humans. Shevenell Webb, from Maine’s Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, confirmed that affected squirrels usually recover from the disease.

How Does The Virus Spread?

The virus is transmitted through direct contact, between healthy squirrels, and the sores or saliva of infected individuals. Additionally, other animals consuming the remains of infected birds coudl possibly contract the disease. Once infected, squirrels then spread the virus through their own saliva and discharge.

Authorities strongly advise against attempting to capture or treat afflicted squirrels.Intervention could cause further stress to the animal and potentially spread the disease.

Virus	Squirrel Fibroid Virus (SFV)
Type	Poxvirus
Symptoms	Wart-like tumors, oozing wounds, hair loss
Transmission	Direct contact, saliva, contaminated carcasses
Human Risk	Low to None

Did you Know? Poxviruses are a large family of viruses that include the virus that causes smallpox, although the Squirrel Fibroid Virus is not known to infect humans.

This unsettling news arrives alongside reports from Colorado of Rabbits displaying unusual growths,resembling “tentacles or small horns,” adding to a growing sense of unusual wildlife occurrences. More on the Colorado rabbits can be found here.

Squirrel Population Health: A Broader Perspective

Squirrel populations face numerous threats, including habitat loss, road mortality, and predation. Viral outbreaks like SFV can further impact local populations, but the long-term effects depend on factors such as squirrel density, the virus’s virulence, and the overall health of the ecosystem. Conservation efforts focused on preserving squirrel habitats and monitoring wildlife health are crucial to mitigating these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Zombie Squirrels’

• What is the Squirrel Fibroid Virus? The Squirrel Fibroid Virus is a poxvirus that causes wart-like tumors on squirrels.
• Is the Squirrel Fibroid Virus hazardous to humans? No, wildlife officials state the virus poses a very low risk, if any, to human health.
• What should I do if I see a squirrel with symptoms of SFV? do not approach or attempt to treat the animal. Report the sighting to your local wildlife authorities.
• How does the Squirrel Fibroid Virus spread? It spreads through direct contact with infected squirrels or their saliva, and by consuming infected carcasses.
• Are squirrel populations at risk from this virus? while concerning, squirrels typically recover from the disease, though severe cases can be fatal.

what are your thoughts on these reports? Have you observed any unusual wildlife behavior in your area?

What are the key symptoms used to identify squirrel fibromatosis in the field?

What’s Happening to North American Squirrels?

Reports of squirrels exhibiting unusual behavior – often dubbed “zombie squirrels” – are increasing across the United States and Canada.This isn’t a scene from a horror movie, but a real phenomenon linked to a viral skin disease called squirrel fibromatosis. While alarming in appearance, understanding the condition is key to alleviating concerns. This article dives into the details of squirrel fibromatosis, its symptoms, causes, and what it means for both squirrel populations and public health.

Identifying Squirrel Fibromatosis: Symptoms and Visual Signs

The term “zombie squirrel” stems from the visibly disturbing symptoms of this disease. Here’s what to look for:

Wart-like Tumors: The most prominent sign is the development of pus-filled, wart-like tumors on the squirrel’s skin. These can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, feet, and tail.

Neurological Issues (Rare): While less common, some affected squirrels may exhibit neurological symptoms like impaired movement or disorientation. This contributes to the “zombie-like” description.

lethargy: Infected squirrels frequently enough appear less active and may seem sluggish or weak.

Loss of Fur: In some cases, fur loss around the tumor sites can occur.

Open Sores: Tumors can become ulcerated and open, leading to secondary infections.

It’s critically important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity.Early stages may present with small, barely noticeable growths.

The Cause: A Deep Dive into Squirrel Fibromatosis

Squirrel fibromatosis is caused by a virus, though the specific virus responsible is still under examination. It’s a naturally occurring disease,meaning it isn’t linked to environmental toxins or human interference.

Here’s what we know:

Viral Transmission: The virus is believed to spread through direct contact between squirrels, likely through bites or scratches.

Not Zoonotic: Crucially, squirrel fibromatosis is not known to be transmissible to humans or domestic animals. This is a key point to address public concerns.

Geographic Distribution: While cases have been reported sporadically in the past, recent increases are being observed across a wider geographic range in both the US and Canada.

Species affected: Primarily affects Eastern Gray Squirrels, Fox Squirrels, and American Red Squirrels.

Impact on Squirrel Populations: Is There Cause for Concern?

While the visual symptoms are unsettling,the impact of squirrel fibromatosis on overall squirrel populations is still being assessed.

Mortality Rates: The disease doesn’t necessarily lead to immediate death. Though, severe cases can weaken squirrels, making them more vulnerable to predators and other health issues.

Population Dynamics: Wildlife experts are monitoring squirrel populations to determine if the disease is causing notable declines in specific areas.

Long-Term Effects: The long-term effects of squirrel fibromatosis on squirrel genetics and population health are currently unknown.

What to Do If You Spot a “Zombie squirrel”

If you encounter a squirrel exhibiting symptoms of fibromatosis, here’s what experts recommend:

1. Do Not Handle: Avoid direct contact with the squirrel.While the disease isn’t zoonotic,it’s best to err on the side of caution.
2. Report Sightings: Report the sighting to your local wildlife authorities or animal control. This helps track the spread of the disease. You can also submit photos if possible.
3. Keep pets Away: Keep pets away from sick or deceased squirrels.
4. Maintain Distance: Observe from a safe distance. Do not attempt to capture or treat the squirrel yourself.

Distinguishing Fibromatosis from Other Squirrel Ailments

Several other conditions can cause similar symptoms in squirrels. it’s critically important to differentiate fibromatosis from:

Squirrelpox: Another viral disease causing skin lesions, but typically more localized.

injuries: Wounds from fights or accidents can resemble tumors.

Parasitic Infections: Certain parasites can cause skin irritation and growths.

Skin Cancer: Though rare,skin cancer can occur in squirrels.

Accurate diagnosis requires veterinary examination, which is typically conducted on deceased specimens by wildlife health professionals.

Current Research and Future Outlook

Researchers are actively working to understand squirrel fibromatosis better. Key areas of investigation include:

Virus Identification: Pinpointing the exact virus responsible for the disease.

Transmission Dynamics: Understanding how the virus spreads between squirrels.

Disease Progression: Studying the stages of the disease and its impact on squirrel health.

Potential Treatments: Exploring potential treatments or management strategies, though this is challenging due to the wild nature of the animals.

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