Colorado Rabbits Grow Tentacle-Like Horns, But No Threat to Humans
You might have seen some bizarre pictures lately coming out of Fort Collins, Colorado — rabbits with what look like little tentacles or horns sprouting from their heads. It sounds like something straight out of a horror movie, but it’s actually a real-life phenomenon caused by a virus known as rabbit papillomavirus. This virus causes skin growths, sometimes black nodules or horn-like structures, mostly around a rabbit’s head.
The unusual growths have caught the attention of locals, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife was alerted after multiple sightings in the area. A spokesperson, Kara Van Hoose, explained that while these growths can look alarming, they usually don’t have significant effects on wild rabbits. The only time it becomes a real problem is if the growths interfere with the rabbit’s ability to see, eat, or drink. Otherwise, the rabbits generally continue on with life as normal.
Also Read:- Romero Thrilled to Be Named Tottenham Captain Ahead of UEFA Super Cup
- Newfoundland Wildfires Spur Urgent Firefighter Response
For humans, there’s no need to worry. The virus is species-specific, which means it can’t be transmitted to people or other pets. The way rabbits usually get infected is through insect bites — fleas, ticks, or other biting insects during the warmer months of summer. Sometimes, the virus spreads from direct contact between rabbits, which means domestic rabbits housed outdoors could also get it. In domestic rabbits, the disease tends to be more severe, so a veterinarian should be consulted if the growths appear.
Interestingly, the virus is seasonal. It usually clears up on its own when the weather gets colder, and wild rabbits often recover without any long-term issues. Still, Van Hoose emphasized that people should avoid interacting with infected wild rabbits. That means no touching, feeding, or trying to catch them — a standard safety precaution when dealing with any wild animals.
So, while the images of these “Frankenstein rabbits” might be startling at first glance, the reality is that most wild rabbits in Fort Collins are fine. The growths are a temporary effect of the virus, and humans are completely safe from any risk. It’s a reminder of how strange and fascinating nature can get — and also a cue to give wild animals their space, even when they look a little otherworldly.
If you want, I can also create a slightly more dramatic “storytelling” version that would be perfect for reading out loud in a news or podcast style, keeping it around 450 words. Do you want me to do that?
Read More:
0 Comments