Reports of rabbits with bizarre growths have been circulating in Colorado, leaving residents concerned and wildlife officials issuing a warning. The sight of a zombie rabbit—a seemingly normal cottontail with grotesque, horn-like protrusions on its face—has become a topic of viral fascination and fear. These unusual growths, which some have described as “tentacles,” “black quills,” or “toothpicks,” are caused by a naturally occurring virus, and authorities are advising the public to keep a safe distance from the affected animals. The latest news confirms that this is not a new outbreak but a recurring condition that is drawing significant attention.
The striking growths are the result of the Shope papillomavirus (SPV), also known as the cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV). This DNA virus, a distant relative of the human papillomavirus (HPV), is primarily found in wild cottontail rabbits in the Midwest. The virus is spread through biting insects like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, which transmit it by feeding on the rabbits. Once infected, a rabbit develops small red bumps that eventually grow into wart-like masses. These can take on an alarming appearance, resembling horns or tentacles, and are most often seen around the rabbit’s mouth, eyes, and ears.
While the growths are typically benign, they can become a serious problem for the rabbits. If a growth develops over an eye, it can impair the rabbit’s vision, making it an easy target for predators. Growths around the mouth can make it difficult or impossible for the rabbit to eat or drink, often leading to starvation. Fort Collins resident Susan Mansfield, who saw an affected rabbit in her yard, told local news outlets that the growths “look like black quills or black toothpicks sticking out.” She noted that despite the unsettling sight, the rabbit had survived for a second year. This shows that while the virus can be dangerous, some rabbits are able to live with the condition.
Despite the terrifying appearance of these so-called “Frankenstein bunnies” or “demon rabbits,” experts assure the public that there is no cause for alarm regarding human or pet safety. The Shope papillomavirus is species-specific, meaning it only affects rabbits. It cannot be transmitted to humans, dogs, cats, or other animals. However, this does not mean that domestic rabbits are entirely safe. Pet owners are advised to protect their rabbits from insect bites and to keep them away from wild rabbits, as the virus can be more severe in domesticated breeds. If a pet rabbit is infected, veterinarians can often surgically remove the growths to prevent them from becoming malignant.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials have been receiving calls and reports about the rabbits, especially from the Fort Collins area. A spokesperson for CPW, Kara Van Hoose, explained that while the public sightings are gaining traction, the virus is not uncommon in Colorado. The increased reports are likely due to the viral photos and social media posts, as well as the fact that the biting insects that spread the virus are most active during the summer and fall. The agency’s primary recommendation is simple: leave the rabbits alone. Interfering with the wildlife can cause them unnecessary stress and may worsen their condition.
The story of the zombie rabbit is not a recent phenomenon. In fact, this condition is thought to be the source of the mythical jackalope—a rabbit with the antlers of an antelope. The virus was first discovered in the 1930s and has even been instrumental in early cancer research, as the DNA of the virus was found to be similar to human papillomavirus. Many infected rabbits can fight off the virus, causing the growths to disappear over time. However, until that happens, their unusual appearance will continue to attract attention and spark a mix of fascination and horror online.
The sight of these rabbits is certainly unsettling, but it serves as a reminder of the complex and sometimes strange realities of the natural world. Have you seen any of these rabbits in your area? Share your thoughts on this peculiar wildlife development in the comments below.