A wildlife photographer visiting South Africa’s Kruger National Park was left stunned after spotting a giraffe whose neck looked as if it were covered in tree bark. At first glance, the strange texture appeared like camouflage or a mutation, but experts soon identified the cause: papillomavirus, a condition that creates thick, wart-like lesions on the skin. Though unsettling in appearance, the virus is typically not fatal.

Papillomavirus affects many species, including humans, and each strain is species-specific. In giraffes, the infection often spreads through oxpeckers — birds that feed on ticks but may unintentionally irritate or break the skin, making transmission easier. While the lesions aren’t deadly, they can cause discomfort and, if scratched open, lead to infections.

The images, captured by photographer Helen Olive, quickly gained attention because the giraffe looked as though it was “turning into a tree.” Olive explained that she initially mistook the rough textures for surrounding vegetation until she realized the growths were actually part of the giraffe’s body. Cases like this highlight how even strong, iconic animals face lesser-known health challenges.

Fortunately, conservationists say giraffes with papillomavirus usually survive unless complications arise. With South Africa’s giraffe population now rebounding thanks to conservation efforts, unusual sightings like this serve as powerful reminders of the ongoing need to protect wildlife from both visible and invisible threats.