Strange discovery in EU: Rabbits found with unusual appendages resembling tentacles on their heads
Unusual Growths Spotted on Wild Rabbits in Colorado
Residents of Fort Collins, Colorado, have been alarmed by the appearance of strange black "tentacles" on wild rabbits in their local parks. These growths, which resemble horns or antlers, have been causing concern among the community due to potential health risks.
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department has identified the condition as a viral infection affecting only this species of rabbit. Known as the Shope papilloma virus or cutaneous papilloma virus of cotton-tail rabbits, the virus causes the growth of tumors, usually on the head, face, ears, and sometimes legs.
The virus is primarily spread by biting insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas, especially during warm months when these vectors are most active. The virus can also spread through direct contact between rabbits.
The Shope papilloma virus causes wart-like tumors to form around the head, face, ears, eyelids, neck, mouth, and occasionally limbs. These growths can become large and horn- or antler-like, sometimes looking like spikes, tentacles, or fleshy protrusions, giving infected rabbits a "zombie bunny" or "horned rabbit" appearance.
While visually striking and alarming, the virus does not infect humans, dogs, cats, or other pets. Wild rabbits may survive with the condition or recover naturally; domestic rabbits with papillomas should see a vet for assessment. Severe cases may require surgical removal of growths.
The growths can interfere with vision and hindering eating, making it harder for rabbits to survive. Tumors are often firm and moist, lasting up to about 150 days, then usually regressing naturally. The immune system of many rabbits can eventually clear the infection, with papillomas disappearing in about 35% of cases within six months.
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department has advised avoiding contact with the affected animals. Mandatory vaccination for measles will be a requirement for school returns in Chihuahua, Mexico, but no further information is provided about the specific virus affecting the rabbits or the location of the Chihuahua measles outbreak.
Susan Mansfield, a resident of Fort Collins, has observed a rabbit with the black spot for several years in the park of her house. Images captured by neighbors show the affected rabbits with the black spots on their heads. Despite the unusual appearance, these rabbits have survived both the first and second winter seasons, suggesting that they may have a more robust immune system or that the virus may not be as severe in their case.
Overall, while the Shope papillomavirus can cause cosmetic, sensory, and feeding impairments, it usually does not pose a threat beyond these effects in the wild.
- The strange black "tentacles" on wild rabbits in Colorado have sparked health concerns due to potential risks.
- The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department identified the condition as a viral infection, known as the Shope papilloma virus.
- This virus is primarily spread by biting insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas, especially during warm months.
- The Shope papilloma virus causes the growth of tumors on various parts of the rabbit's body.
- The growths can resemble horns, antlers, spikes, tentacles, or fleshy protrusions, giving infected rabbits a strange appearance.
- The virus does not infect humans, dogs, cats, or other pets but can affect vision and hindering eating for wild rabbits.
- While there are cosmetic, sensory, and feeding impairments, the virus usually does not pose a significant threat in the wild.
- Mandatory vaccination for measles will be a requirement for school returns in Chihuahua, Mexico, but no information was given about the specific virus affecting the rabbits.
- Susan Mansfield, a resident of Fort Collins, has observed a rabbit with the black spots for several years in her house's park.
- Neighbors have captured images of affected rabbits with the black spots on their heads.
- Despite their unusual appearance, these rabbits have survived both the first and second winter seasons.
- Therapies and treatments for severe cases may require surgical removal of growths in domestic rabbits.
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- Medicare could potentially cover treatment costs for health conditions like chronic diseases, cancers, and respiratory and digestive conditions.
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