A giraffe in South Africa’s Kruger National Park has captured global attention after being spotted with an extraordinary condition that makes it appear as though it’s slowly turning into a tree. Photographs reveal the animal’s neck covered in rough, bark-like growths—a striking sight that, at first glance, might resemble an unusual camouflage or genetic mutation. However, the truth is far more familiar: the giraffe is suffering from a viral infection known as papillomavirus.
A Non-Lethal but Uncomfortable Condition**
Papillomavirus is known to affect various animals, including cattle, causing thick, crusty lesions to form on the skin. While the growths may look alarming, experts confirm the virus is not fatal. However, the lesions can become highly irritating, particularly if scratched repeatedly, potentially leading to open wounds or secondary infections.
In giraffes, the virus is primarily spread by oxpeckers—small birds that perch on large mammals and feed on ticks embedded in their skin. Though these birds help control parasites, they may inadvertently transmit viruses by pecking at irritated areas.
A Rare Sighting Captured on Camera**
The infected giraffe was photographed by Helen Olive, an experienced wildlife photographer and civil servant from Oxfordshire, England. With over 15 years of documenting wildlife, Olive described this encounter as one of the most unusual she’s ever witnessed.
“At first, I thought the giraffe was standing behind some bushes,” Olive recalled. “But then I realized what I was seeing was actually part of its body—it looked like the virus had transformed its skin into tree bark.”
No Threat to Humans or Other Species**
Papillomavirus is not exclusive to giraffes; it affects many species, including humans, rabbits, and chimpanzees. However, each strain is highly species-specific, meaning the version found in giraffes poses no risk to other animals or people.
Giraffes, the tallest land mammals on Earth, can reach heights of nearly 20 feet. They inhabit savannas and open woodlands across Africa, including South Africa, where conservation efforts have helped their populations rebound after years of decline due to poaching, habitat loss, and disease. Today, South Africa is home to over 30,000 giraffes—a conservation success story.
A Reminder of Nature’s Hidden Challenges**
While this giraffe’s condition is visually striking, experts believe it will likely survive, as papillomavirus infections rarely shorten lifespans unless complications arise. Still, the case highlights the lesser-known health challenges wildlife face, even in protected environments like Kruger National Park.
For now, this unique giraffe remains one of the park’s most mysterious—and unforgettable—sightings.
