Are ‘zombie rabbits’ with black horns invading the US?

Are ‘zombie rabbits’ with black horns invading the US?

Wild rabbits in South Dakota and Colorado have developed horn-like growths and mouth tentacles. These bunnies, now being called ‘Frankenstein’s rabbits’ online, are infected with a virus called Shope papillomavirus (SPV), a relative of human papillomavirus (HPV). Are they a threat to humans and other animals?

Fortunately, the rabbits in America’s Midwest haven’t turned into zombies. The strange-looking growths spotted on them are caused by Shope papillomavirus, also called cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV). Image courtesy: X