Zombie Rabbits on the Loose!

Imagine walking through the cool forests of Colorado and stumbling upon rabbits that look like they've just crawled out from a horror movie. With growths eerily resembling horns or tentacles, these bunnies are turning heads—and raising concerns.

The Culprit: Cottontail Rabbit Papillomavirus

The strange appearances of these furry creatures are not the result of some supernatural curse but rather a virus known as cottontail rabbit papillomavirus, or Shope papilloma virus. This viral infection is primarily found among cottontail rabbits in certain parts of the Midwest but is making its mark in Colorado's wildlife, alarming residents.

Should You Be Worried About Your Pets?

While these infected rabbits might resemble something out of a nightmare, wildlife officials are quick to assure pet owners that there's little cause for alarm. Kara Van Hoose from Colorado Parks and Wildlife warns that pets should avoid direct interaction with these rabbits, yet the virus itself poses no threat to other species.

What Exactly is Rabbit Papillomavirus?

This virus is transmitted to rabbits mainly through biting insects and can result in the formation of skin growths, known as rabbit papillomas. These growths typically appear on the head, occasionally taking on a grotesque horn-like shape. Most rabbits can live with the virus, and often the growths will eventually disappear without significant impact on their health.

The Dangers: More Than Just a Scary Appearance?

While the grotesque growths don’t usually endanger a rabbit's health, problems can arise if they interfere with eating or drinking. In rare cases where these lesions persist, rabbits may develop squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer.

Can Your Furry Friends Catch This Virus?

It’s true that papillomaviruses can affect a variety of species—including people—but the cottontail rabbit variant is strictly a rabbit affair. Domestic rabbits, especially those who roam outdoors and come into contact with wild counterparts or pesky insects, can catch the virus. If you suspect your pet rabbit has been infected, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care, as the disease may be more severe in domestic animals.

Stay Vigilant!

While these zombie-like rabbits might seem shocking, the key takeaway for pet owners is to keep their beloved pets away from wild rabbits and their habitats. Awareness and caution are the best defenses against this unusual viral outbreak!