An unusual phenomenon has once again captured international attention. Residents of the United States and Canada have been shocked by sightings of wild squirrels whose bodies are covered with large, wart-like lumps filled with pus. This disturbing appearance quickly earned the nickname “zombie squirrels.” Photos and videos of the animals spread rapidly across social media, sparking both fear and curiosity about what was happening to these creatures.

Reports of squirrels with severe skin growths first surfaced in 2023. However, the phenomenon resurfaced strongly in the summer of 2025 after new cases were widely covered by American and European media. Viral images from backyards in Maine to urban parks in Canada fueled global fascination, drawing comparisons to the earlier “Frankenstein rabbits” trend.

Experts explain that the condition is caused by squirrel fibromatosis (SQF), an infection linked to the fibroma virus, part of the Leporipoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family. The disease triggers the growth of skin tumors (fibromas) that often appear as swollen nodules, sometimes rupturing and releasing fluid.

Medical reports confirm that the virus spreads primarily through direct contact between squirrels or via insect bites from mosquitoes and ticks. Outbreaks are most common in areas where squirrels gather frequently, such as around bird feeders, where close interaction accelerates transmission.

Despite its gruesome look, zombie squirrels pose no risk to humans or pets. Scientists emphasize that the virus is species-specific and cannot spread beyond squirrels.

Typically, squirrel fibromatosis lasts about 4 to 8 weeks. In many cases, the nodules shrink and heal on their own. However, in younger or immunocompromised squirrels, tumors can obstruct feeding or breathing, occasionally leading to death.

Wildlife specialists from the University of Georgia note that while the images are alarming, the disease itself is well-documented and not new. What makes it sensational today is the shocking visual impact, which fuels viral content on social platforms.

The term “zombie squirrels” gained momentum after thousands of photos and videos spread on Reddit, X, and TikTok. Many internet users compared the phenomenon to horror creatures, particularly following the widely shared “Frankenstein rabbits.”

Mainstream outlets such as the New York Post, Times of India, and Economic Times published in-depth coverage, ensuring the story became a global talking point.

While the shocking images have sparked fear, conservation groups urge the public to remain calm. They stress that this disease is part of natural wildlife dynamics and not a new threat to human health.

Wildlife advocates also remind people to exercise caution when feeding squirrels in their backyards. Keeping bird feeders clean and reducing direct contact with wild animals are considered effective preventive steps.

The viral zombie squirrel phenomenon in the United States and Canada highlights the intersection between nature, perception, and media. Although frightening in appearance, fibromatosis in squirrels poses no threat to humans. This case illustrates how quickly social media can transform a local wildlife issue into an international news headline.

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zombie squirrels