The unusual appearance of the rabbits has drawn significant concern among locals and even social media users online.

The growths are most likely caused by a summertime virus common in some U.S. states, but wildlife officials say there is no risk of transmission to humans or other animals.

Colorado residents have spotted rabbits with weird, gnarled growths on their heads recently, leading to widespread concern. Here's what to know about the infection plaguing the animals and whether it poses a threat to them or to people nearby.

Some cottontail rabbits in Fort Collins, Colorado, have been drawing attention because they have wart-like growths on their faces that look like horns

Rabbits with black, tentacle-like growths sprouting from their faces have been spotted in Colorado Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) said the black growths on the rabbits are from a viral infection caused by the cottontail rabbit papillomavirus Experts note that the growths often don't harm the rabbits,

Strange growths on Colorado rabbits are caused by a common seasonal virus spread by insects. The virus is harmless to humans but can affect pet rabbits

Rabbits in Colorado went viral—and sparked concern—after growing black, tentacle-like horns on their head and neck. Thankfully, there’s an explanation that doesn’t involve monster bunnies.