Colorado residents alarmed as rabbits with black horns and mouth tentacles keep appearing
Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials have identified the cause as Shope papillomavirus (SPV), a rabbit-only virus that produces wart-like tumours, particularly around the face and head.
SPV, a relative of human papillomavirus, is spread among rabbits by biting insects but is not harmful to humans, pets, or other wildlife.
Officials advise the public to avoid approaching or touching affected rabbits, noting that the growths often disappear naturally and most wild rabbits manage well.
The unusual appearance of these rabbits has gone viral online, with many comparing them to "zombies" or "Frankenstein bunnies", and some researchers linking them to the jackalope legend.
'Zombie' rabbits with black horns and mouth tentacles are invading Colorado backyards
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