Strange ‘Jackalope’ Rabbits Spotted in Colorado—Could They Reach Louisiana?

If you've ever heard the wild stories about a rabbit with antlers, you most likely assumed they were a prank made from some guy in a garage to sell at tourist shops. However, people in Fort Collins, Colorado, have been taking notice lately since it appears like the fabled "jackalope" may be hopping around the city.

What is a Jackalope?

Although they don't have actual antlers, the bunnies that people are witnessing are real. The Shope papillomavirus, which forms growths resembling warts, has infected these cottontails. The growths can sometimes pop out of a rabbit's head and face, making it resembles horns. When seen from a distance, you might mistakenly believe that you are witnessing a mystical creature rather than a sick bunny.

Many locals have named theses poor rabbits "demon rabbits," "zombie rabbits," and "Frankenstein bunnies". However, experts say there is no need to panic, or reaching for a silver bullet. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife's Kara Van Hoose, the virus is rather widespread, particularly during the summer when fleas and ticks can spread it more readily.

The good news? Only rabbits are afflicted by the virus. It is not contagious to humans or pets. The "horns" ultimately fall off, and the majority of rabbits are able to fight off the infection on their own. The only significant risk is that the growths will obstruct their mouth or eyes, making it difficult for them to feed.

Unbelievably, researchers believe that this virus may have contributed to the origin of the jackalope myth. Legends about horned rabbits date back hundreds of years, and in the 1930s, Dr. Richard E. Shope's research on these "antler bunnies" even helped doctors discover more about viruses that can cause cancer in people.

I for one am glad we haven't seen any of these here in Louisiana, im sure as soon as we do, someone will have it mounted on the wall, But for now just remember Jackalopes are not real.