Backyard 'Zombie' Squirrels with Oozing Warts Detected Across Several States

Across several states, residents have spotted squirrels with wart-like, oozing growths, likely caused by squirrel fibromatosis linked to Lepripoxvirus. The tumors usually don't affect the animals’ survival, though in rare cases they can spread to organs. Infections peak in spring and summer. Humans and pets can’t catch it, but experts advise not handling affected squirrels and, to limit spread, consider removing bird feeders.