Cottontail rabbits in Fort Collins, Colorado, are facing an alarming health issue. Reports from local residents have documented rabbits displaying black, tentacle-like growths on their heads and faces. These peculiar protrusions resemble quills or horns surrounding their mouths. Some rabbits have been seen returning with larger tumors after surviving the harsh winter months.
The root of this troubling condition lies in the Shope papilloma virus, which generates keratinous tumors on the skin of infected rabbits. For these animals, the consequences of the disease can be dire. Large tumors can obstruct their ability to eat, leading to severe starvation. While some rabbits have been seen recovering naturally as the growths diminish, the virus still weakens them, making them targets for predators. Primarily affecting wild cottontail rabbits, the virus can also infect related species, such as brush rabbits and jackrabbits.
The timing of infections typically aligns with warmer months, peaking alongside increased insect activity. Transmission occurs through bites from parasites like ticks and fleas, and it can spread through direct contact with infected rabbits or contaminated environments. Observers note that instances of the virus seem more prevalent in the Midwest than elsewhere in the country.
Historically, the virus made its first appearance in the 1930s, identified by Richard Shope, who documented horn-like tumors in rabbits from Kansas and Iowa. This discovery marked a significant moment in science, revealing one of the earliest known DNA viruses capable of causing tumors in mammals. Evidence shows that outbreaks have been documented for over a century, indicating its long presence in rabbit populations.
Interestingly, these distinctive growths have stirred up folklore, drawing comparisons to the legendary jackalope. In past encounters, hunters mistook virus-afflicted rabbits for these mythical creatures, a mix of jackrabbit and antlers. The jackalope myth gained traction in the 1930s, attributed to a clever taxidermy hoax by two brothers in Wyoming. The idea that jackalopes could produce whiskey-flavored milk or mimic human voices fueled their place in Western folklore.
While the Shope papilloma virus poses no danger to humans or domestic pets, it remains a concern for wild and domestic rabbits. Pet owners are encouraged to keep their animals away from wild counterparts to prevent potential transmission of the virus. The lack of a vaccine or cure means vigilance is key. Local wildlife agencies emphasize the importance of reporting sightings to help manage the health of rabbit populations.
"*" indicates required fields
