Reports of rabbits infected with the cottontail papilloma virus (CRPV), also known as Shope papilloma virus (SPV), are increasing across several U.S. states. These infected rabbits display grotesque, horned creatures with dark, tentacle-like growths sprouting from their heads. Americans in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and New York have shared images and accounts of these creatures in recent months, with some likening them to "something that escaped from a horror movie."
Ze Peitica Gado, a cattle seller in New York, reported an encounter on May 30, describing the rabbit as "gnarly." Similarly, Stephanie Griffith of Amery, Wisconsin, received a call from her daughter on June 15 detailing a sighting of a "tentacle-faced bunny." Cheryl Maplethorpe, also from Wisconsin, shared an image on June 11 of a rabbit in her yard with growths on the back of its head.
The cottontail papilloma virus causes cancerous lesions that can resemble horns, typically on or near the animal's head. The virus spreads primarily through mosquitoes and ticks that bite an infected animal, transmitting the DNA-altering condition. While SPV can occasionally spread through direct contact between rabbits, scientists note that insect transmission to humans is not known.
The initial symptom of the virus is red, raised spots on a rabbit's skin, which develop into wart-like tumors. These can mature into keratinized papillomas, appearing as the "horns" and "tentacles" observed on affected Midwestern rabbits. In some instances, these warts can develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a serious and potentially deadly skin cancer if not treated early.
These virus-induced growths can interfere with a rabbit's ability to eat, see, or hear, sometimes leading to starvation or complications from tumors affecting the eyes or mouth. While some growths may heal independently, wild rabbits in affected areas often develop increasingly large tumors. In cases where tumors become malignant, veterinarians can surgically remove them from pet rabbits before they become untreatable.
Officials have previously advised the public to avoid touching or attempting to help infected rabbits. Colorado Parks and Wildlife issued a similar warning in August 2025 following numerous sightings in Fort Collins, Colorado. The virus is not believed to spread to humans or pets, and wildlife officials maintain that the best course of action is to keep a distance and leave these disfigured rabbits undisturbed. The appearance of these horned rabbits has also been linked to folklore, such as the mythical "jackalope."