Wildlife Officials Warn Against Touching “Frankenstein” Rabbits with Unusual Growths
Across the United States, reports are surfacing of wild rabbits exhibiting strange, dark growths, prompting some to dub them “Frankenstein rabbits” with “tentacles.”
While these descriptions might sound like something out of a horror movie, the cause is a natural phenomenon – the Shope papilloma virus.
However, encounters with these affected animals should be handled with caution, not due to a risk of contracting the virus, but for the well-being of the wildlife itself.
Wildlife agencies are urging Americans to observe a simple rule: do not touch these rabbits. While the Shope papilloma virus, which causes the wart-like or horn-like growths on the rabbits’ heads and faces, is not known to be contagious to humans or domestic pets, there are several crucial reasons why physical contact should be avoided.
Firstly, any interaction with wild animals can cause undue stress. Rabbits, especially those already dealing with the physical burden of these growths, are particularly vulnerable.
Approaching or attempting to handle them can trigger a flight response, leading to exhaustion and potential injury as they try to escape. This stress can further compromise their immune systems, making it harder for them to cope with the virus or other health challenges.
Secondly, even if the virus itself isn’t transmissible, wild animals can carry other parasites or diseases that could potentially affect humans or pets. Maintaining a respectful distance minimizes the risk of any such transmission. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to interacting with wildlife.
Thirdly, human interference can disrupt the natural processes at play. While the growths caused by the Shope papilloma virus can sometimes hinder a rabbit’s ability to eat or see, leading to natural selection, human intervention could inadvertently harm the animal’s chances of survival or disrupt the ecological balance. Wildlife officials are best equipped to monitor and understand these situations; public interference can complicate their efforts.
Furthermore, getting too close to wild animals can habituate them to human presence, which can ultimately be detrimental to their survival. Animals that become comfortable around humans may lose their natural fear, making them more vulnerable to dangers such as traffic, domestic pets, or even individuals who might intentionally harm them.
If you encounter a rabbit with these unusual growths, the best course of action is simply to observe it from a distance and appreciate the unique, albeit somewhat unsettling, display of nature. You can also report sightings to your local wildlife authorities, as this can help them track the prevalence and impact of the virus.
