Social media has exploded with images of wild rabbits in Colorado exhibiting strange black horn-like or tentacle-like growths on their faces and heads. These photos have led users to nickname them “zombie rabbits,” “Frankenstein bunnies,” and even aliens.
The Scientific Explanation: Shope Papillomavirus (SPV)
The bizarre growths are caused by a virus called Shope Papillomavirus (SPV), also known as Cottontail Rabbit Papillomavirus (CRPV).
This DNA virus infects wild cottontail rabbits and causes keratinized tumors (warts) to grow, particularly around the head, face, mouth, and neck.
These growths can resemble tentacles, spikes, or horns, hence the disturbing appearance.
Should Humans or Pets Be Worried ?
- No direct threat to humans, dogs, cats, or other animals.
- The virus is not zoonotic, meaning it does not spread between species.
- However, authorities advise not to touch or interact with infected rabbits.
How the Virus Spreads
Spread through bites of mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects.
Rarely spreads by direct contact between rabbits.
Climate and insect activity can impact spread.
How Does It Affect Rabbits ?
In many cases, the tumors are benign, but they can:
Become cancerous in some cases.
Rabbits with severe infections often suffer malnutrition or become easy prey.
Interfere with eating, breathing, or seeing if they grow too large.
What Are Officials Saying ?
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Advises :
Do not approach or handle infected rabbits.
Take photos from a safe distance and report sightings to local wildlife agencies.
Keep children and pets away from the animals.
Origin of the “Jackalope” Myth?
Many scientists believe this virus may have inspired the legend of the “jackalope”, a mythical horned rabbit found in American folklore.
Scientific and Medical Significance
SPV has been studied since the 1930s and played a role in human HPV research and cancer studies.
It’s a real-world example of how viral infections can create grotesque tumor growths that appear unnatural.
Treatment and Prevention
No treatment in the wild – nature runs its course.In domestic rabbits, growths may be surgically removed by vets.
Prevention focuses on reducing insect exposure:
Use tick/mosquito control around rabbit habitats.
Avoid standing water where insects breed.
Public Reaction Online
Social media users are both fascinated and horrified:
That rabbit with tentacles made me wanna rip my skin off”
“Frankenstein bunnies are real ?
Memes, conspiracy theories, and photos have flooded platforms like X, Instagram, and Tiktok
Why This Matters Scientifically
SPV is a model virus used in labs for understanding:
Viral carcinogenesis (how viruses cause cancer)
HPV vaccine development
The virus shows how natural infections can mimic fantasy creatures.
Conclusion
The strange horn- or tentacle-like growths seen on wild rabbits in Colorado may appear terrifying at first glance, but they have a well-documented scientific cause: Shope Papillomavirus (SPV). While the virus can severely impact rabbit health, it poses no danger to humans or pets.
This outbreak has not only drawn viral attention online but also sparked interest in the intersection of nature, folklore, and science—possibly shedding light on the origins of the legendary “jackalope.” SPV also continues to play a valuable role in medical research, particularly in understanding virus-induced cancers.
In the end, this is a reminder that unusual wildlife sightings should be approached with curiosity and caution, not fear. By respecting wildlife, reporting concerns to proper authorities, and supporting scientific research, we can better understand and protect the natural world—even when it looks stranger than fiction.
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