Viral images of “Frankenstein” rabbits in Colorado expose a real wildlife virus—and a reminder to trust facts, not fear or politics, when officials say: do not touch them.
What Coloradans Are Seeing: Horn-Like Growths From a Known Rabbit Virus
Fort Collins residents have reported cottontail rabbits with dramatic, black, horn-like growths on their heads and faces, a presentation linked to Shope papillomavirus, a long-documented rabbit virus that can form keratinized papillomas and, less commonly, progress to squamous cell carcinoma. Coverage consolidating Colorado Parks and Wildlife guidance explains that these growths look shocking but reflect a recognized wildlife condition rather than a new outbreak. The public is urged to avoid contact, refrain from attempting rescues, and report unusual wildlife disease sightings to authorities.
'Frankenstein' mutated rabbits with tentacles on their heads seen in Fort Collins, Colorado
They are infected by the cottontail papilloma virus (CRPV) which causes tumors to grow on or near the animal's head. https://t.co/IlEyIyiPcF pic.twitter.com/DsuVP9oGkM
— A.E. (@AtlasEternal13) August 12, 2025
Officials and veterinarians cited in reporting note SPV’s likely transmission through mosquitoes and ticks among rabbits, with direct contact also possible between rabbits. Current summaries emphasize that there is no evidence of human infection via insect bites in these cases, and pet risk through those vectors is not supported by available reporting. Practical advice for pet rabbit owners focuses on mosquito control and veterinary consultation if papillomas cause eating or vision problems, including potential surgical removal in domestic animals.
Not a 2025 Mystery: A Viral Phenomenon With 2013 Precedent
National outlets are resurfacing a storyline that first went viral in 2013, when a Minnesota “horned rabbit” video drew widespread attention and wildlife commentary pointing to papillomavirus-related tumors. The 2024–2025 Fort Collins sightings fit that pattern: recurring cases appear where cottontails and biting insects intersect. While headlines lean sensational—“tentacles,” “invade”—the underlying biology tracks established literature on SPV. The continuity between 2013 coverage and today’s reports supports the view that this is episodic and familiar, not a novel cross-species threat.
Local animal control guidance transmitted through media reiterates that euthanasia is not recommended for wild rabbits simply due to visible growths. Colorado Parks and Wildlife messaging stresses distance, non-interference, and monitoring. Residents who encounter affected animals should avoid touching or feeding them, keep pets away, and contact wildlife authorities for direction if an animal appears injured or is obstructed from eating or seeing. This approach protects public safety, respects wildlife management protocols, and avoids unnecessary harm or spread among rabbit populations.
Facts Over Fear: Practical Steps and Sensible Risk Management
Homeowners can reduce standing water to limit mosquitoes, secure trash and garden attractants to reduce rabbit congregation, and supervise pets outdoors. Pet owners concerned about domestic rabbits should prioritize mosquito prevention and seek veterinary advice rather than attempt any home removal of growths. Community members should resist social-media-driven calls to cull wildlife; agency guidance does not support that response, and the condition, while unsettling to see, does not warrant vigilante action. Clear-eyed adherence to official advice minimizes risk without feeding panic.
HUH? 🐰 Some rabbits were spotted with black, tentacle-like growths coming from their heads. Experts explained what's causing it: https://t.co/35KZ0OBKaN pic.twitter.com/tKpV0qyFLO
— KYTX CBS19 (@kytxcbs19) August 12, 2025
Conservative readers justifiably distrust sensationalism and mission-creep from bureaucracies, but this case underscores effective limited-government messaging: heed targeted wildlife guidance, avoid unnecessary intervention, and keep families safe through basic hygiene and pet care. The Constitution and our liberties are not implicated by a wildlife advisory; this is common-sense stewardship. By focusing on verifiable facts—SPV’s known presentation, low human risk, and CPW’s “do not touch” directive—communities can protect health without inviting heavy-handed responses or fear-driven overreach.
Sources:
Mankato’s unusual rabbit video attracts attention | CBS Minnesota/AP (2013 precedent)
‘Frankenstein’ rabbits with tentacles on their heads invade US | ABD Post recap
Video of ‘Frankenstein’ rabbit goes viral | KOMO
Video of ‘Frankenstein’ rabbit goes viral | KATU