Photos of rabbits with bizarre, antler-like growths on their heads have recently surfaced on social media. The rabbits were spotted in several parks in Fort Collins, Colorado. The images, which look like something out of a horror movie, have led people to dub the animals "demon rabbits," "Frankenstein rabbits," and even "zombie rabbits."

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) agency explained on 13/8 that these rabbits are infected with the Shope papillomavirus (CRPV). This virus causes benign tumors to grow on their heads, resembling horns. American scientists began studying this virus nearly 100 years ago.

While the virus is common, harmless to humans and pets, CPW advises people to avoid contact with the infected rabbits as a precaution.

A rabbit infected with CRPV in a Fort Collins, Colorado park. Photo: Unilad

A rabbit infected with CRPV in a Fort Collins, Colorado park. Photo: Unilad

Experts in Colorado are concerned that the infected rabbits could spread the virus throughout the Midwest. CPW spokesperson Kara Van Hoose noted that summer is the peak season for ticks and fleas, which transmit the virus.

The benign tumors are generally not harmful to the rabbits unless they obstruct the animals’ eyes or mouths, interfering with their ability to eat. Because rabbits’ immune systems can fight off the virus, the growths often disappear on their own.

Duc Trung (AP, People)