Strange Zombie Looking Rabbits Spotted in Fort Collins [PHOTOS]

Strange Zombie Looking Rabbits Spotted in Fort Collins

If you've been out and about recently in Fort Collins, you may have noticed something a bit out of the ordinary.

Locals have spotted these strange little creatures, and they've been giving people a fright.

There have been reports of almost zombie looking rabbits in Northern Colorado.

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What Are These Rabbits With Growths on Their Heads?

According to a report from 9News, multiple people have seen rabbits with "alarming growths" on their heads in Fort Collins. These growths are described as "black, tentacle like protrusions."

Photo of Rabbits With Shope Papilloma Virus in Fort Collins Area

Check out a photo of it below! This one was spotted in Fort Collins earlier this month.

Shope Papilloma Virus Explained: What’s Affecting Fort Collins Rabbits?

Experts confirmed that this is most likely something called shope papilloma virus otherwise known as cottontail cutaneous papilloma virus.

According to PetMD, this viral virus causes tumors to grow out of a rabbit's head. Typically this can be found amongst wild rabbits, but domestic rabbits could get them as well.

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How Shope Papilloma Virus Spreads in Northern Colorado

This virus is spread through mosquitos or ticks and even between rabbits. There is no known cure for this, but these growths can be removed surgically.

Are These Rabbit Tumors Dangerous for Wildlife in Fort Collins?

Reports claim that if these growths don't "resolve themselves" they could become harmful to the rabbit.

In most instances though, these tumors are considered relatively harmless as long as they aren't on the creature's mouth or eyes.

Can Shope Papilloma Virus Spread to Humans or Pets?

There is no word on if this virus could be spread to humans or other creatures. Wildlife experts do recommend that if you do encounter one, that you should leave it alone.

READ MORE: What to Know About Rabies + Your Colorado Pets in 2025

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