Squirrels Across US and Canada Displaying Alarming Tumor-Like Growths
A concerning trend is unfolding across parts of the United States and Canada: squirrels are being observed with grotesque, oozing sores and tumor-like growths. Reports began surfacing in 2023 and continue into August 2025, prompting concern among wildlife officials and social media users alike.
What is Causing these Growths?
Initial speculation pointed to squirrel pox, a virus more commonly affecting red squirrels. However, experts now beleive the primary culprit is squirrel fibromatosis, a condition caused by a different virus and more prevalent in gray squirrels. This illness manifests as wart-like growths that can become inflamed and leak fluid, though they typically resolve on thier own.
Shevenell Webb of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife explained the potential for rapid spread, stating, “It’s like when you get a large concentration of people. If someone is sick and it’s something that spreads easily, others are going to catch it.”
Understanding Squirrel Fibromatosis
Squirrel fibromatosis is caused by a leporipoxvirus, transmitted through direct contact with infected squirrels’ lesions or saliva. This transmission method is comparable to the spread of herpes in humans.The growths, while visually alarming, are generally not fatal and often heal within a few months. However, severe cases can impact internal organs, leading to a decline in health.
Did You Know? While the appearance of these growths is unsettling, squirrel fibromatosis poses no threat to humans, dogs, or birds.
Wildlife officials emphasize that the virus cannot be transmitted to other species. despite this, they strongly advise against attempting to handle or assist infected squirrels. “I would not recommend trying to capture a squirrel that has the virus,” Webb cautioned in an interview with the Bangor Daily news. “It is naturally occurring and will run its course in time.”
The Role of Bird Feeders
A potential contributing factor to the increased visibility of this condition is the widespread use of bird feeders. these feeders create concentrated gathering points for squirrels, increasing the likelihood of transmission. Squirrels with fibromatosis can leave saliva on uneaten birdseed, inadvertently infecting healthy individuals.
Sightings of infected squirrels tend to peak during the summer months when foraging activity increases. This correlation suggests a link between food availability and the spread of the virus.
Pro Tip: Consider temporarily removing bird feeders to reduce squirrel congregation and potentially slow the spread of fibromatosis in your area.
Distinguishing Fibromatosis from Squirrel Pox
While both squirrel pox (SQPV) and fibromatosis can cause skin lesions, they differ in severity and prevalence. SQPV is a more systemic illness, frequently enough fatal to red squirrels, and is more common in the United Kingdom, where red squirrel populations are larger. The current outbreak appears to be primarily affecting gray squirrels with fibromatosis in North America.
| Condition | Primary Host | Severity | Geographic Prevalence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrel Fibromatosis | gray Squirrels | Generally Mild | North America |
| Squirrel Pox (SQPV) | Red Squirrels | Often Severe/Fatal | United Kingdom |
Recent social media posts, including one from a Reddit user on July 31, showcase squirrels with prominent tumors on their faces and bodies. These visual confirmations underscore the reality of the outbreak and the need for continued monitoring.
Do you think increased awareness of squirrel fibromatosis will lead to changes in backyard wildlife feeding practices? What other steps can be taken to protect squirrel populations?
long-Term Implications and Ongoing Research
The recent surge in reported cases of squirrel fibromatosis highlights the importance of ongoing wildlife health monitoring. Understanding the factors that contribute to viral outbreaks in squirrel populations is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of fibromatosis on squirrel populations and the potential for the virus to mutate or spread to other species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrel Fibromatosis
- What is squirrel fibromatosis? It’s a viral disease causing wart-like growths on squirrels, typically gray squirrels in North America.
- Is squirrel fibromatosis perilous to humans? No, the virus cannot be transmitted to humans or other domestic animals.
- How is squirrel fibromatosis spread? Through direct contact with infected squirrels’ lesions or saliva.
- What should I do if I see a squirrel with these growths? Do not attempt to handle the squirrel; allow it to run its course.
- Can bird feeders contribute to the spread? Yes, by creating concentrated gathering points for squirrels.
- Is there a cure for squirrel fibromatosis? There is no specific cure,but the condition usually resolves on its own within a few months.
This situation serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of wildlife health and human activities. By understanding the factors contributing to the spread of diseases like squirrel fibromatosis, we can take proactive steps to protect these fascinating creatures and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
