Horned Rabbits in Colorado: The Truth Behind the Viral ‘Zombie Bunny’ Sightings

A man’s casual stroll in Colorado turned into an encounter straight out of a science fiction novel. What he initially dismissed as an internet hoax—rabbits with grotesque, horn-like growths—was now sitting quietly in the grass before him. His stunned reaction, captured on video, has fueled a wave of online fascination and concern, but wildlife experts are providing the facts behind these so-called “Frankenstein bunnies.”

What Causes Horned Rabbits to Grow These Bizarre Features?

The unsettling growths are not the result of nuclear fallout or a zombie apocalypse, but a naturally occurring virus. Wildlife biologists confirm these rabbits are infected with the Shope papilloma virus. First identified in 1930 by Dr. Richard E. Shope, a professor at Rockefeller University, this virus triggers the development of keratinous tumors, primarily on the head and face.

Initially, these growths appear as small warts. Over time, as a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Kara Van Hoose, explained to the Associated Press, they can elongate and harden, taking on the shocking appearance of “horns and tentacles.” While the condition looks painful, the growths are often not fatal. However, if they develop over the eyes or mouth, they can impair a rabbit’s vision and ability to eat, leading to starvation.

Are ‘Zombie Rabbits’ a Danger to Humans or Pets?

This is the most pressing question for concerned residents, and the answer from health and wildlife officials is reassuring. Despite their alarming appearance, these infected rabbits pose no threat to humans. The Shope papilloma virus is species-specific, meaning it cannot be transmitted to people, cats, or dogs.

However, officials strongly advise the public not to touch or attempt to handle any wild animal that appears sick. The best practice is to observe from a distance and report the sighting to local wildlife authorities. This protects both the animal from stress and prevents the potential, though unlikely, spread of other secondary infections.

Recent sightings have been concentrated in states like Colorado, Minnesota, and Nebraska, indicating the virus is active in specific wild rabbit populations. The viral video from South Dakota suggests the phenomenon may be more widespread than previously documented, prompting increased public awareness and scientific observation.

The discovery of these “horned rabbits” is a startling reminder of the strange and complex interactions within nature, not a signal for public alarm. While their appearance is undeniably strange, they are a natural, documented part of the ecosystem. For anyone who spots one, the protocol is simple: keep your distance, appreciate the rarity of the sighting, and notify Colorado Parks and Wildlife or your local agency. This ensures experts can continue to monitor the virus’s spread and impact safely.

Must Know

What is the virus causing horns on rabbits?
The horns are caused by the Shope papilloma virus. This virus triggers the growth of keratinous tumors, which can harden and elongate into horn-like or tentacle-like structures on a rabbit’s head and face.

Can you get sick from a rabbit with the Shope virus?
No. The Shope papilloma virus is not transmissible to humans, cats, or dogs. It is a species-specific virus that only affects rabbits.

What should I do if I see a rabbit with horns?
Do not touch or approach the animal. Observe it from a safe distance and report the sighting to your local wildlife agency, such as Colorado Parks and Wildlife, so they can track the virus’s prevalence.

Are the horn growths fatal for the rabbit?
Not always. The growths themselves are not typically fatal. However, if they block the rabbit’s eyesight or mouth, it can prevent them from foraging and escaping predators, which may lead to death.

Where have these horned rabbits been found?
Confirmed sightings have been reported in several states, including Colorado, Minnesota, Nebraska, and a recent viral video emerged from South Dakota.