Wild Colorado Rabbits Growing ‘Horns’ Are Sick, Not Alien—Here’s What You Need to Know
In Fort Collins, Colorado, residents have been doing double-takes at what at first glance look like mutated rabbits with horn-like growths sprouting from their faces. Some have chillingly described the extras as black toothpicks or quills circling their mouths. One resident, Susan Mansfield, even saw the same rabbit return to her yard two winters in a row—its growths more pronounced the second time around.
But rest assured, wildlife officials say this isn’t a sci-fi outbreak—it’s a common virus. Colorado Parks and Wildlife confirmed these unsettling protrusions are caused by the Shope papilloma virus (SPV), a rabbit-specific papillomavirus that causes wart-like tumors. When aggravated, these growths can look like miniature horns.
Thankfully, the condition usually doesn’t harm wild rabbits unless the tumors block their mouths or eyes. Most will survive and eventually shed the growths on their own.
Importantly, SPV doesn’t jump to humans, pets, or other wildlife. But domestic rabbits kept outdoors should be watched closely, as they can suffer more serious effects and may require a vet’s intervention.
If you come across one of these “horned” rabbits, wildlife experts recommend watching from a distance and not attempting to help or handle the animal. There’s no known cure, and interference can do more harm than good.
