While a squirrel climbing a tree may seem harmless, these rodents with bushy tails have been reported to aggressively attack humans.
In a recent incident, a wild squirrel allegedly “leaped” onto a woman’s face, causing severe harm. Isabel Campoy recounted how the squirrel unexpectedly descended to the ground and attempted to reach her face.
Describing the incident, she said: “I shielded my face, but the squirrel overpowered my arm.” Isabel sustained deep, bloody wounds on her arm before the squirrel eventually retreated, prompting her to seek medical help.
Following the frightening encounter, the victim expressed, “It is painful to touch my skin. I am determined to survive this with all my strength.”
Joan Heblack, another individual, recounted being unexpectedly attacked by a squirrel in California, describing it as a “very scary” experience as the squirrel “suddenly appeared.” She narrated, “It clung onto my leg and refused to let go.”
She continued, “The tail was flailing around. I was shouting, ‘Get off me, get off me!’ I was caught off guard. It appeared out of nowhere without any warning.”
Joan also suffered bite and claw injuries from the squirrel’s attack during her morning stroll, necessitating medical treatment. Experts caution that diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella can be associated with squirrels.
Isabel and Joan are among five victims who have encountered squirrel attacks in Lucas Valley, San Rafael, California, as per a report by ABC News. Concerned residents have posted warning signs, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
The signs prominently state, “Beware of Attack Squirrel!” and further caution, “This is not a joke; more than five individuals have been targeted.”
Vanessa Potter from WildCare in San Rafael highlighted that such incidents are not uncommon and may result from squirrels being fed by humans in the past. She explained, “If they associate people with food, they lose their fear of humans.
“They become food-seeking. If they don’t find any, it can lead to frustration. They can also be protective of their
