Bizarre Bunnies: Is the ‘Zombie’ Rabbit Disease Hopping Your Way?

If you hear the words “zombie rabbit,” you might picture an apocalyptic scene complete with brain-chomping bunnies. But don’t panic just yet! Recent reports have highlighted ‘zombie’ rabbits spotted in Colorado, with whispers of their grotesque appearances also making waves in Washington. They’re entwined with a disease known as Cottontail Rabbit Papillomavirus (CRPV), which gives these creatures rough, alarming lesions—a sight that could make anyone do a double-take while strolling through the park.

Surprisingly, this unsettling ailment isn’t all that new. As Chase Gunnell from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife points out, CRPV has been around for nearly a century in the U.S. Although social media claims these rabbits are causing a stir, Gunnell clarifies that wildlife experts haven’t corroborated the recent sightings. It seems bunny lovers need not queue up at the vet just yet!

What’s even more fascinating is that while the virus spreads between rabbits, it poses no threat to other species or our beloved pets. So, if you spot a bunny looking like it just sprouted from a horror flick, just remember it’s a harmless virus. It’ll recover, and you’ll still have some charming, fluffy companions hopping around your backyard.

Have you ever encountered a pet with a bizarre problem that seemed stranger than fiction? Share your odd pet stories in the comments!

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