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Viral Infection Causes Unusual Growths on Fort Collins Rabbits
Rabbits in southeast Fort Collins have been spotted with unusual black, spike-like growths protruding from their heads, prompting concern from residents and an investigation by wildlife officials.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife has confirmed the growths are caused by a viral infection that affects rabbits but is not contagious to other animals or humans.
Local residents have photographed the affected rabbits, describing the growths as resembling black quills or toothpicks extending from around the animals' mouths and faces. Some described the appearance as "scabby-looking."
Susan Mansfield, a Fort Collins resident, said she has observed rabbits with these growths for multiple years. "He has the same black stuff on him and I was very curious what it was," Mansfield said. "I thought he would die off during the winter but he didn't, he came back a second year."
Wildlife officials advise residents to avoid contact with affected rabbits, following the same guidelines applied to all wild animals. The virus appears to be persistent, with some infected rabbits surviving through the winter months and returning the following year.
By: CNN Newsource
August 11, 2025
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