Residents of northern Colorado, especially in Fort Collins, have reported sightings of wild rabbits with black protrusions resembling horns or tentacles, both on the head and around the mouth.
These curious animals were nicknamed “Frankenstein rabbits”, “zombie rabbits” or even “demon rabbits” on social networks.
Experts from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department (CPW) confirmed that these deformities are the result of infection with Shope’s papillomavirus (also called cottontail rabbit papillomavirus).
This disease causes warty lesions that harden and elongate, taking on the appearance of horns or tentacles.
Viral origin of the ‘Frankenstein rabbits’.
Transmission of the virus occurs mainly through vectors such as fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, especially during the summer, when these insects are most active.
Although the appearance of ‘Frankenstein rabbits’ is shocking, the condition usually resolves naturally in wild rabbits, whose immune systems fight infection.
However, it can become a problem if the bumps affect the animal’s vision or feeding.
Fortunately, the virus does not pose a risk to humans or other species, including pets. Even so, it is recommended to avoid contact, as it could cause stress in animals or facilitate its spread.
Shope’s papillomavirus was discovered by virologist Richard E. Shope in the 1930s, and played a key role in research on human cancer-related viruses such as HPV.
It is even believed that this condition may have inspired the legend of the jackalope, a mythological creature that is half hare, half antelope.
In Fort Collins, Colorado, Frankenstein rabbits have been seen with strange growths caused by Shope’s papillomavirus. Although disturbing in appearance, the condition is benign, not contagious to humans, and often transient.
The phenomenon is an opportunity to raise awareness about wildlife, its care and the importance of being correctly informed.
