A squirrel described as dangerous has caused alarm in a neighbourhood in the US state of California, after injuring at least two residents.

Warnings have been issued to locals in the Lucas Valley area, where the squirrel has attacked people in separate incidents, according to media reports.

Joan Heblack, a resident of the neighbourhood, said she encountered the squirrel during a morning walk in San Rafael. It bit her leg while its tail moved in the air. She screamed but avoided touching it.

In another incident, a woman said her husband attempted to prevent the squirrel from damaging their wooden fence. He used his hat to drive it away, but the squirrel turned back and leapt at his head.

In response, pamphlets have been displayed in the area, advising people to remain cautious.

A representative from the local wildlife hospital explained that squirrels do not transmit rabies. However, when fed by humans, they may sometimes display aggressive behaviour.

She suggested that the animal may have been raised by someone and had become reliant on being fed. It may now be acting out in search of food. Squirrels are typically shy by nature.