What is the SPV virus turning rabbits into ‘zombie bunnies' with tentacles, and can it infect dogs or cats?
in South Dakota have been spotted with bizarre horn- or tentacle-like growths on their heads, alarming residents and sparking viral social media posts. Photos of these 'zombie bunnies' have exploded online, with some users dubbing them alien-like and others expressing shock or sympathy.
"Stranger Things from the inside out world have made their first appearance ," wrote on X user.
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"It's like a resident evil version of a rabbit, but in real life," quipped another.
What's Behind the Creepy Mutation?
According to reports, a virus called the
Shope papillomavirus
(SPV) aka the cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV) is causing rabbits to grow such weird tentacles. This DNA virus primarily infects wild cottontail rabbits in the US, causing wart-like tumours that often appear around the head, face, and ears. These growths can resemble spikes, antlers, or fleshy tentacles.
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Though the condition isn't usually fatal, the growths can impair a rabbit's vision, smell, and ability to eat, leaving them vulnerable to predators. In rare cases, the tumours can become cancerous. The virus spreads between rabbits through direct contact or via biting insects like mosquitoes, which often target fur-free areas of the head.
Annual Occurrence, Not a New Outbreak
Sightings of 'horned' or 'tentacled' rabbits are not new in South Dakota and other US states like Colorado. Locals report such cases almost every year. Many wild rabbits develop an immune response that eventually shrinks or eliminates the growths, but veterinarians sometimes remove them in severe cases.
Safe for Humans and Most Pets
Experts stress that SPV cannot infect humans, dogs, or other large mammals. The main risk is to domesticated rabbits, which tend to be more susceptible than their wild counterparts. If you keep pet rabbits, preventing mosquito bites and avoiding contact with wild rabbits can reduce the risk.
Meanwhile, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials have advised people to leave the animals alone. The growths are a natural result of the virus, and interfering with wild rabbits can cause unnecessary stress. If spotted, admire from a safe distance — and maybe snap a photo for your own viral moment.
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