Media hype over “zombie squirrels” reveals how quickly fear and misinformation can undermine public trust and distract from real threats to American communities.
Story Snapshot
- Sightings of squirrels with grotesque tumors and sores have surged across the U.S. and Canada, alarming residents.
- Experts confirm the cause is a naturally occurring virus, not a public health risk or government failure.
- “Zombie squirrels” look disturbing but pose no danger to humans, pets, or food safety.
- Wildlife officials urge Americans not to panic or intervene, emphasizing responsible backyard practices.
Disturbing Squirrel Sightings Spark Public Alarm
Since mid-2023, residents in suburban and urban neighborhoods across the United States and Canada have reported unsettling sightings of squirrels bearing large, oozing tumors, hairless patches, and wart-like growths. Dubbed “zombie squirrels” by sensational media and social media users, these animals have prompted widespread concern about possible outbreaks and threats to public health. Photos and videos circulated online have amplified fears, with many questioning whether these cases signal a new health crisis or failed government oversight in wildlife management.
The scientific consensus, however, is clear: these squirrels are suffering from a viral skin disease called fibromatosis, caused by the leporipoxvirus. Wildlife biologists and state agencies emphasize that, while the disease is visually shocking and clusters have increased due to more backyard bird feeding, it is neither new nor dangerous to people or pets. The virus spreads primarily through direct contact—often at bird feeders or shared food sources—and is common in areas where squirrel populations are dense. Officials stress that the disease is self-limiting, typically resolving without intervention within four to eight weeks, and poses no risk to food safety or domestic animals.
Leporipoxvirus: A Natural Disease, Not a Government Failure
Leporipoxvirus has affected North American wildlife for decades, causing similar outbreaks among rabbits and squirrels long before recent social media coverage. While the disturbing appearance of afflicted squirrels has led to confusion with more lethal diseases like squirrelpox (prevalent in the UK), experts clarify that this virus is much less fatal and rarely impacts an area for extended periods. The disease’s spread has been facilitated by modern backyard practices—especially bird feeding—which bring squirrels into closer contact and allow for easier viral transmission. Wildlife health authorities report no evidence of mutation, deliberate introduction, or mismanagement by officials, countering online speculation with established ecological facts.
Wildlife biologists urge Americans to resist panic and refrain from capturing or treating affected squirrels. Attempting to intervene can cause unnecessary stress to the animals and may disrupt natural disease cycles. Instead, experts recommend maintaining clean bird feeders and minimizing opportunities for close contact among wildlife, which aligns with responsible stewardship and individual liberty—values at the core of American tradition. Officials also highlight that the rapid spread of sensationalized images and alarmist commentary online often overshadows science-based messaging, undermining public trust in both local communities and legitimate institutions.
Media Sensationalism and the Importance of Fact-Based Guidance
Coverage of “zombie squirrels” has largely been driven by the striking visual impact of afflicted animals and the speed of information sharing on social networks. While such reporting raises awareness of wildlife disease, it also risks stoking unnecessary fear and eroding confidence in the agencies tasked with safeguarding public health and natural resources. Notably, wildlife authorities have proactively issued clear, consistent statements clarifying that the disease is a naturally occurring phenomenon and does not require government intervention or emergency action. This stands in contrast to narratives that blame policy failures or seek to politicize natural events, reinforcing the need for vigilance against misinformation that distracts from legitimate threats to American values and family security.
Why ‘Zombie Squirrels’ Have Been Appearing In The U.S. And Canada – Forbes https://t.co/uG0ufwxRHV
— Rich Newbold (@drnewbold) August 24, 2025
In summary, the “zombie squirrel” phenomenon is a vivid reminder of how quickly rumors can escalate in today’s media landscape. The facts remain straightforward: leporipoxvirus is a longstanding wildlife disease, visually disturbing but harmless to humans and pets. Officials urge Americans to maintain perspective, practice sensible backyard hygiene, and rely on authoritative sources—not social media hype—for guidance. By upholding these common-sense approaches, Americans can protect both their communities and the principles of individual responsibility that remain at the heart of our nation.
Sources:
“Zombie Squirrels” With Oozing Warts Spotted Throughout US and Canada
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