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Residents of Fort Collins, Colorado, have spotted rabbits with black, toothpick-like horns caused by the Shope papilloma virus
Experts explain the virus, also known as Cottontail Rabbit Papilloma Virus (CRPV), forms wart-like tumors on rabbits
The growths usually do not harm the rabbits unless they block eating or vision.
A bizarre sighting of rabbits with horn-like warts on their heads and faces has sparked tension among locals in Colorado, USA. These rabbits, found in the region of Fort Collins and other parts of Colorado, have raised concerns about a virus or mutation spreading among the animals. Scientists, however, have asked people not to worry about the horn-affected bunnies.
Photos of the rabbits have been going viral, prompting nicknames such as “zombie bunnies,” “Frankenstein bunnies,” and “demon rabbits” on the internet.
The furry animals have started to grow black, toothpick-like horns, indicating a possible disease. Experts have stated that this phenomenon is nothing new; in fact, a centuries-old North American myth is likely based on this virus. The legend of the jackalope tells of a mythical animal—half hare or rabbit—with horns.
Experts explain that the rabbits’ distorted appearance is caused by a virus named Shope papilloma. This disease forms wart-like tumors on their heads, eyelids, and eyes. Even though the horns may look disturbing to some, scientists have confirmed that the virus poses no threat to other animals or humans.
Shope papilloma virus, also known as the Cottontail Rabbit Papilloma Virus (CRPV), was first identified in cottontail rabbits in the Midwestern United States in 1933. The virus is named after its discoverer, Richard E. Shope.
News of these “Frankenstein bunnies” from Fort Collins, north of Denver, went viral after residents spotted them in their neighbourhoods and posted photos online. Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, said that it is not uncommon for the virus to appear during summer, when ticks and fleas are more active.
According to the University of Missouri, this disease is a DNA virus most frequently seen in cottontail rabbits of the Midwest, with occasional outbreaks in domestic rabbits. Initially, residents feared that a deadly plague might be spreading, potentially affecting other wildlife or local pets.
The growths generally do not harm the rabbits directly—unless the horns obstruct their ability to eat or drink. “We would be concerned only if the growths are on the eyes or impede the rabbit’s ability to eat,” Van Hoose stated. She further explained that rabbits have the immune capacity to fight off the virus, and the growths will eventually disappear, restoring the cottontail bunnies to their normal appearance. [Rh/VS]
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