A Field Guide
TO COMMON WILDLIFE DISEASES
AND PARASITES IN ALASKA

PAPILLOMAS (Warts)

Moose with numerous warts.

• Warts in animals are caused by viruses similar to those that cause warts in people.
• Papillomas are spread between animals by direct contact.

• Warts are found on the skin of moose or caribou throughout Alaska.
• They are most common in animals younger than 2 years old.

• Affected animals are usually in good body condition.
• Warts are often found on the head but can occur on other parts of the body.
• In caribou and moose, the warts are dark lumps that vary in size from 1/3 to 6 inches. There may be only one or many and the surface may be rough or smooth.

• You cannot get warts from infected animals.

• Meat from infected animals is suitable for human consumption.
• Trim off parts containing warts.

• Warts