Rabbits with ‘horns’ in Colorado are being called ‘Frankenstein bunnies.’ Here’s why

A group of rabbits in Colorado with grotesque, hornlike growths may seem straight out of a low-budget horror film, but scientists say there’s no reason to be spooked — the furry creatures merely have a relatively common virus. The cottontails recently spotted in Fort Collins are infected with the mostly harmless Shope papillomavirus, which causes wart-like growths that protrude from their faces like metastasizing horns. Viral photos have inspired a fluffle of unflattering nicknames, including “Frankenstein bunnies,” “demon rabbits” and “zombie rabbits.” But their affliction is nothing new, with the virus inspiring ancient folklore and fueling scientific research nearly 100 years ago.

The virus likely influenced the centuries-old jackalope myth in North America, which told of a rabbit with antlers or horns, among other animal variations. The disease in rabbits also contributed to scientists’ knowledge about the connection between viruses and cancer, such as the human papillomavirus that causes cervical cancer. The virus in rabbits was named after Dr. Richard E Shope, a professor at The Rockefeller University who discovered the disease in cottontails in the 1930s. Residents in Fort Collins have spotted wild rabbits with ‘scary’ horn-like and tentacle-shaped growths protruding from their heads and faces. ## What is Shope Papilloma Virus? The virus causes benign wart-like tumors, but in some cases, these can become malignant (cancerous). While generally not harmful to the rabbit’s overall health, tumors can create problems if they obstruct the mouth, nose, or eyes. The disease is relatively common in wild rabbit populations, particularly during warmer months when insect activity is high. There is no known cure for the virus; surgical removal of tumors is sometimes performed for domestic rabbits. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is advising residents to keep their distance. The rabbits are not dangerous.

## Rabbits developing horns in Colorado is a medical condition- The rabbits developing horn-like structures on their heads in Colorado are actually suffering from a medical condition. According to wildlife experts, the unsettling condition is caused by Shope papilloma virus, a disease that creates wart-like tumours on rabbits, often around the head, ears, and eyelids. While the growths may look disturbing to someone who looks at them for the first time, officials stressed they do not pose a threat to humans, pets, or any other wildlife. ‘Virus only spreads between rabbits’