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‘Monster’ rabbits with black horns growing from their heads spotted in Colorado
Hikers in Colorado have been spotting rabbits with alarming black, horn-like protrusions growing from their heads and faces. While these growths may look like something from a horror movie, there’s a straightforward scientific explanation that outdoor lovers should understand.
The unusual growths are caused by the Shope papillomavirus (SPV), also known as cottontail rabbit papillomavirus. This viral infection creates dark, wart-like tumors that can resemble tentacles or horns protruding from the rabbit’s head, face, and neck area.
“It looks like black quills or black toothpicks sticking out all around his or her mouth,” described Fort Collins resident Susan Mansfield, who has observed affected rabbits in her area for multiple seasons.
The papillomavirus spreads through biting insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. This explains why reports typically increase during summer and fall months when these insects are most active. The virus is transmissible between rabbits but affects only this species.
According to Kara Van Hoose, spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, “This is a virus that’s not uncommon in Colorado.” The condition has been documented in the state for years, though recent media coverage has led to increased public awareness and reporting.
For the rabbits themselves, the virus is typically benign. The growths are similar to warts and don’t cause pain unless they interfere with the animal’s ability to eat or see. Many rabbits can clear the virus from their system naturally over time.
The good news for outdoor enthusiasts and pet owners is that this specific strain only affects rabbits and is not known to transmit to humans or other animals.
What Should Outdoor Enthusiasts Do?
If you encounter rabbits with these growths while hiking or camping:
Keep your distance. Avoid approaching or touching affected animals and give them plenty of space.
Protect your pets. Keep dogs on leash and away from wild rabbits as a general precaution, though transmission to pets is not a documented concern.
Report sightings. Colorado Parks and Wildlife welcomes reports of affected rabbits, as this helps them track the virus’s spread throughout the state.
Follow standard wildlife safety practices. This includes maintaining appropriate distances from all wild animals and not feeding them.
The Bottom Line
While these horn-like growths may look disturbing, they represent a natural viral condition that Colorado’s rabbit population has dealt with for years. Outdoor enthusiasts can continue enjoying Colorado’s wilderness while simply maintaining respectful distances from wildlife and following standard safety practices.
The phenomenon reminds us of nature’s complexity and the importance of observing wildlife from a safe distance while allowing animals to manage their natural processes without human interference.
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