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Story perspectives

Climate Change Fuels 'Zombie' Squirrel and Deer Growths

8/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Reports from the US describe deer with growths, referred to as 'Frankenstein' rabbits and 'zombie' squirrels.
These growths are identified as deer cutaneous fibroma, a benign infection affecting mainly young deer.
Transmission occurs through biting insects or contact with infected deer.
Climate change may lead to more sightings due to increased mosquito populations.
The infection is harmless and usually resolves within months.

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Story summary

Reports from the US describe deer with growths, referred to as 'Frankenstein' rabbits and 'zombie' squirrels.
These growths are identified as deer cutaneous fibroma, a benign infection affecting mainly young deer.
Transmission occurs through biting insects or contact with infected deer.
Climate change may lead to more sightings due to increased mosquito populations.
The infection is harmless and usually resolves within months.