Hikers at a popular trail have been warned to steer clear of squirrels after people reported seeing sick and dead ones around Runyon Canyon Park in the Hollywood Hills.
Officials said that “sick, lethargic, and deceased squirrels have recently been observed” along the popular hiking trails, asking hikers to report immediately to the park ranger if they see any, according to the alert shared on the Friends of Runyon Canyon Facebook page.
“Sick wildlife may carry diseases transmissible to humans and pets,” the alert warned. “Your reports help keep the park safe for everyone.”
Rangers said signs that a critter may be sick include the animal appearing lethargic, unsteady, erratic or disoriented. People have been advised to contact officials if they spot any dead squirrels on or near the trails.
Officials are asking people not to touch any of these animals and to be sure to keep their dogs away from the wildlife and on a leash to keep their pups from possibly being infected by whatever is making the critters sick.
In addition, they said to not feed the squirrels or any of the other wildlife and to be sure to wash their hands thoroughly after visiting the park.
The sick squirrels have sparked a ton of online chatter: Are the animals suffering from some kind of wildlife disease that broke out in the area, or could something worse be happening like they are poisoned?
“I’ve sometimes been considered an erratic, disoriented squirrel — especially by the time I get to the top of Runyon. … But seriously, thanks for the heads up. We’ll be on the lookout,” one person wrote.
Another added, “Ooh, that’s probably PLAGUE. STOP FEEDING THEM! It’s not only ILLEGAL, it’s horrible for them.”
A third wondered if the animals were injecting poison set out for rats and mice.
The alert also provided tips for contacting a park ranger if a hiker does spot one of these squirrels not looking right, asking people to note the location and time of your sighting if possible.
The Post reached out to the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks about the alert and to find out what is happening.
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