Liputan6.com, Jakarta Recently, the internet gets surprised by the unusual appearance of Colorado rabbits with tentacles.
This unique appearance, often described as a "tentacled rabbit," has sparked much speculation and concern among the public.
The viral photos have sparked a variety of unflattering nicknames, including "Frankenstein rabbits," "demon rabbits," and "zombie rabbits."
However, this outbreak is nothing new, as the virus inspired ancient folklore and sparked scientific research nearly 100 years ago.
Also, wildlife experts have provided a scientific explanation for this unusual phenomenon.
The strange growths on these rabbits are not genetic mutations or mythical creatures, but rather the result of a viral infection caused by Cottontail Rabbit Papillomavirus (CRPV), also known as Shope papillomavirus (SPV).
This virus causes the formation of tumors or warts that can elongate and resemble horns or tentacles, particularly on the rabbit's head.
Despite its unusual appearance, this virus is generally harmless to humans or other pets.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has confirmed that this infection is specific to rabbits, as reported by Associated Press.
The Origin of the "Tentacle" Phenomenon in Colorado Rabbits
The primary cause of the tentacle-like growths on rabbits in Colorado is infection with the Cottontail Rabbit Papillomavirus (CRPV), also known as Shope papillomavirus (SPV).
This virus triggers the uncontrolled growth of skin cells, resulting in nodules or warts.
The virus was first identified and extensively studied in the 1930s by American virologist Dr. Richard Shope.
Dr. Shope's discovery marked a milestone in the understanding of papillomaviruses and has even been used as a model in cancer research.
Despite being known for decades, the sight of rabbits with these striking growths still often surprises the public.
The virus is naturally present in wild rabbit populations and can cause varying degrees of growth severity depending on the rabbit's individual immune response.
Characteristics of Strange Growth and Its Transmission
The growths that appear on rabbits infected with the CRPV virus are described as black nodules that resemble warts or tumors.
These nodules can elongate significantly, taking on the shape of horns, spines, or even tentacles, giving the rabbit a very unusual appearance.
The areas most commonly affected by these growths are around the rabbit's head, face, ears, and mouth.
Growths in these areas can become quite large and bothersome, although in most cases, they are benign and do not cause serious problems for the rabbit.
Transmission of this virus generally occurs through the bite of parasitic insects such as fleas and ticks, especially during the warmer months.
Additionally, the virus can also spread through direct contact between rabbits, for example during mating, fighting, or sharing burrows, accelerating its spread among wild rabbit populations.
The Impact and Myths of Tentacled Rabbits
While their appearance may be alarming, the growths caused by the rabbit papillomavirus are generally benign and do not directly harm the rabbit.
However, in some severe cases, these growths can obstruct vital functions such as the rabbit's ability to eat, drink, or see, which can ultimately impact their survival in the wild.
Interestingly, in many situations, these growths can disappear naturally over time.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has confirmed that the virus is highly specific to rabbits and poses no threat to humans, other pets (except domestic rabbits), or other wildlife species.
This means that the public should not be concerned about transmitting the virus from infected rabbits to themselves or their pets.
The sightings sparked a concern to comparisons to mythical creatures.
They are often nicknamed "Frankenstein rabbits," "zombie rabbits," or "devil rabbits" because of their bizarre appearance.
Some researchers and folklorists have even suggested that these horn-like growths may have inspired the legend of the jackalope, a mythical North American creature depicted as a horned rabbit, demonstrating how natural phenomena can fuel folklore.
Sources:
- The Journal -
- Associated Press -