Rabbits with wart-like tentacles, horns seen in northern Colorado: Is it dangerous?

Heather Willard
1 hour ago

DENVER (KDVR) — If you’ve seen rabbits north of Fort Collins with unusual wart- and tentacle-like growths on them, you’re not alone, but officials say it’s not something to worry about.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife noticed it as well and says that it’s not that rare.

The black, twisted growths seen on Colorado rabbits come from the papillomavirus and are spread by biting insects that are more active in warmer months. The bites spread the viral disease and cause malignant tumors to grow in rabbits, often on their heads.

CPW says there’s no threat of transmission to pets, but is still warning residents to be careful.

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