Wildlife
officials in Colorado are issuing a serious warning after disturbing sightings
of rabbits in Fort Collins displaying unusual, dark, horn-like growths
sprouting from their faces. These bizarre protrusions are the result of
infection by the **cottontail rabbit papilloma virus (CRPV)—also known as Shope
papilloma virus.
The virus
triggers wart-like keratinized tumors, often appearing on the head, ears, and
neck. In extreme cases, the growths can obstruct the rabbits’ ability to see,
eat, or drink—ultimately leading to slow, painful deaths due to starvation.
While some rabbits may recover within a year, others aren’t so fortunate and
never regain their ability to survive.
CRPV is
spread primarily through biting insects such as mosquitoes and ticks—not
directly from rabbit to rabbit. However, it can also be transmitted through
shared contact with contaminated bedding, food, or water bowls.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife strongly advises the public to avoid handling or approaching affected rabbits, despite the virus not being transmissible to humans or pets. Pet owners should take preventative measures to protect their domestic rabbits from insects and seek veterinary care immediately if any suspicious lesions appear—they can often be surgically removed before turning cancerous.
