Strange Looking Bunnies in Fort Collins, What's Really Going On?

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People in Fort Collins, Colorado, have been seeing rabbits with strange, horn-like growths on their heads and faces. Some look like they have antlers or tentacles, earning nicknames like “Frankenstein bunnies” or “zombie rabbits.”

This might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it is actually a real virus called Shope papillomavirus that only affects rabbits. The virus causes wart-like growths on the skin of rabbits, especially around their heads, faces, and necks. These growths can sometimes look long and sharp, which is why people might think they are horns or tentacles.

The virus spreads through insect bites from mosquitoes, fleas, or ticks and is most common during the summer when these bugs are more active. While the virus can harm rabbits, especially if the growths block their ability to eat or see, many wild rabbits recover on their own. Importantly, this virus does not spread to humans, pets, or other animals, it only affects rabbits.

The Shope papillomavirus is not new; it has been around for nearly 100 years since it was first discovered in the 1930s. Some scientists even believe it helped inspire the myth of the jackalope, a mythical creature described as a rabbit with antlers. People do not need to worry too much but should keep their distance from wild rabbits, especially those that look sick or have growths.

It is best not to touch wild rabbits, to keep pet rabbits indoors or protected from bugs and wild animals, and to call local wildlife officials if a rabbit seems to be suffering. Interestingly, this virus helped scientists discover that some viruses can cause cancer, which was a major advancement in medical research and helped lead to vaccines for human papillomavirus (HPV).

Although these bunnies look strange or scary, they are part of a bigger story about nature, science, and how diseases spread, and this reminds us not to panic when wildlife looks different because there is usually a scientific explanation. To stay safe, people should leave wild animals alone if they look sick, protect their pets from bugs and wild animals, and learn more before sharing scary stories online.

I'm Edgar Gonzalez, a junior at Poudre High School. This is my first year writing for the Poudre Press. In my column, I cover topics about animal viruses. I also wrestle for Poudre High School. When I graduate from Poudre High School, I want to work in the trades as either an Electrician or Plumber.

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I'm Edgar Gonzalez, a junior at Poudre High School. This is my first year writing for the Poudre Press. In my column, I cover topics about animal viruses. I also wrestle for Poudre High School. When I graduate from Poudre High School I want to work in the trades as either an Electrician or a Plumber.