A giraffe in South Africa’s Kruger National Park is making headlines after being spotted with bark-like growths on its neck, giving it the eerie appearance of turning into a tree. The unusual condition is caused by papillomavirus, a viral infection that creates thick, crusty skin lesions in animals.

Though the giraffe’s appearance may seem alarming, experts confirm the virus is not deadly. However, the lesions can be irritating and may become infected if scratched or aggravated.

In giraffes, the virus is often spread by oxpeckers—birds that feed on parasites but may worsen wounds by repeatedly pecking, potentially transmitting the virus in the process.

Wildlife photographer Helen Olive captured the eye-catching images and was initially fooled. “It looked like part of the landscape until I realized the bark was actually its skin,” she said.

Papillomavirus is fairly common across many species, including humans and rabbits. However, each strain is species-specific, meaning the giraffe’s version isn’t contagious to other animals or humans.

Despite the giraffe’s unusual appearance, it is expected to survive and continue thriving in its natural habitat.

South Africa’s giraffe population has been recovering, now estimated at over 30,000. But this case serves as a powerful reminder of the hidden health challenges wild animals can face, even in well-protected areas.

While not life-threatening, the condition highlights how even minor infections can impact wildlife—and how nature often carries unexpected surprises.

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