Rare Squirrel Disease Discovered in Northumberland

In late August 2025, a red squirrel was spotted at Wooler Common in Northumberland with concerning pox-like symptoms. Sadly, the animal died shortly after, sparking fears that the area's red squirrel population could be decimated by the deadly squirrel pox virus.

However, a recent report by medical experts has now confirmed that the squirrel's cause of death was not squirrel pox, but rather a rare, tumor-like condition called histiocytosis. This unusual disease has so far only been recorded in a small number of red squirrels across the UK, primarily in Cumbria and Scotland.

The discovery has come as a relief to local wildlife enthusiasts, who were deeply concerned about the potential impact of a pox outbreak. David Symons of the Wooler Red Squirrel Group had previously described the initial death as "devastating," given that squirrel pox can quickly spread through an entire woodland colony.

Now, with the knowledge that this was an isolated case of a different, non-transmissible condition, the group is feeling more optimistic about the future of Northumberland's red squirrels. The report provides valuable information for other preservation efforts, who can now be on the lookout for histiocytosis alongside the more common pox virus.