Hope for Survival
While the images can be unsettling, many squirrels recover fully once the virus passes.
One wildlife enthusiast even shared a heartening update, posting a video of a once severely infected squirrel now bounding through a yard:
“He beat the worst squirrel pox I have seen and is recovering well. Bad scars but almost full function again and is socializing a little too!”
What You Should Do
Experts stress that the best response to seeing “zombie squirrels” in your neighborhood is non-interference:
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Keep your distance.
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Do not attempt to capture or treat the animals.
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Take down bird or squirrel feeders if you notice multiple infected squirrels, to limit spread.
Though their appearance may be shocking, most of these animals will pull through. The so-called “zombie squirrels” may look terrifying, but in most cases, they’re survivors — not the undead.
