Rabbits in Fort Collins, Colorado, are alarming locals with strange, horn-like growths on their faces.
These growths are caused by the cottontail papilloma virus (CRPV), spread by mosquitoes and ticks.
CRPV creates red, wart-like spots that grow into dark, horn-shaped tumors.
Some infected rabbits eventually go blind or starve because they can’t see or eat.
“It looked like black quills sticking out all around its mouth,” said resident Susan Mansfield.
The virus isn’t dangerous to humans, but experts warn people to avoid contact with infected rabbits.
Pet owners should protect rabbits from mosquitoes and ticks.
If a pet rabbit is bitten, a vet can remove tumors before they turn cancerous.
In the wild, CRPV is usually fatal as growths get bigger each year.
Wildlife officials stress: prevention is the only protection.
As one expert noted, “Nature can be beautiful, but it can also be brutal.”
It’s a chilling reminder of how small pests can cause big problems.
