Wart‑Ridden Squirrels Roam U.S. Backyards, Traced to a Viral Skin Disease

Photographs show gray squirrels with oozing, wart‑like tumors across several states. Wildlife experts say the condition is squirrel fibromatosis caused by leporipoxvirus, not dangerous to humans, pets, or birds. The virus spreads through contact between infected and healthy squirrels, and lesions typically clear in 4–8 weeks, though severe cases can affect internal organs. A surge in sightings last August was noted and may be linked to bird feeders that promote transmission. It’s a wildlife health issue, not a human health threat.