Wild rabbits in Colorado have been discovered with concerning horn-like growths protruding from their heads, startling people on social media .

Thankfully the condition poses no threat to humans and other animals, with recent sightings also having been reported in Minnesota and Nebraska .

The bunnies' 'horns' are a symptom of the Shope papilloma virus , which spreads through the bites of moquitoes, ticks, and fleas. This means it's more common in the warmer months, explaining the current increase in observations.

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The virus itself was discovered in 1933 by Richard Shope, though it's likely its bizarre effects have been inspiring accounts of the mythical jackalope for centuries.

"It's been

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