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In Fort Collins, Colorado, residents have reported sightings of rabbits with unusual horn-like growths on their heads and faces, prompting comparisons to creatures from horror films. These rabbits are infected with Shope papillomavirus, a virus that causes wart-like tumors. Despite their alarming appearance, the virus is mostly harmless to the rabbits and cannot spread to humans or other animals.
Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, explained that the virus is transmitted through insect bites, such as those from mosquitoes and ticks, making it more prevalent in the summer. While the growths can sometimes hinder the rabbits' ability to eat or see, most rabbits recover on their own. However, the disease can be more severe in domestic rabbits, potentially leading to cancer.
Residents are advised to avoid interacting with the infected rabbits and to keep pet rabbits indoors to prevent infection. The virus is common in wild rabbit populations, especially during warmer months when insect activity is high.