Horned Rabbits in St. Paul: Shope Virus Turns Bunnies into Frankenstein Figures

In St. Paul and the Twin Cities, rabbits infected with Shope papillomavirus develop horn- or tusk-like growths. The non-curable virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks and is most active in warmer months. Officials say the prevalence can wax and wane; the Minnesota DNR notes metro infections without confirming a rise, while the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota has treated seven affected rabbits this year. Domestic rabbits may require veterinary removal of growths.