While rabbits do not naturally possess horns, the concept of horned rabbits arises from both folklore and a scientific explanation for horn-like growths, which can cause confusion.
The Jackalope Legend
The jackalope, a mythical jackrabbit with antelope horns, is an icon of American folklore. The legend gained popularity in Douglas, Wyoming, around 1932, when taxidermist Douglas Herrick and his brother created the first jackalope mount by attaching deer antlers to a jackrabbit carcass.
Douglas, Wyoming, embraced its “Jackalope Capital of the World” status, offering humorous hunting licenses and erecting statues. This creature became a prominent cultural icon, symbolizing the ingenuity and tall tales of the American West. Stories suggest jackalopes are mischievous, can mimic human voices, and even sing. The concept of horned hares also appears in older European folklore, like the German Wolpertinger, showing a long history of such imaginative creatures.
The Truth About Rabbit Growths
The scientific explanation for horn-like growths on rabbits is a specific viral infection. These growths are caused by the Shope papilloma virus (SPV), also known as Cottontail Rabbit Papillomavirus (CRPV). Virologist Richard E. Shope discovered this virus in 1933, identifying it as the cause of horn-like keratinous tumors. The virus transmits via biting arthropods like ticks and mosquitoes.
This virus is most common in Midwestern cottontail rabbits but can infect other leporids, including wild and domestic rabbits. The growths typically appear on or near the rabbit’s head, affecting areas such as the ears, eyelids, and nose. While often benign, about 25% of these papilloma infections can progress into malignant squamous cell carcinomas.
Understanding the Growths
The growths from the Shope papilloma virus are not true horns, which are distinct biological structures featuring a bony core. Instead, these are benign tumors composed of keratin, the protein found in hair and fingernails. Their appearance varies, often presenting as hard, rough, circular lesions that can be red, raised, black, or grayish.
These keratinous growths can significantly impact a rabbit’s life. Large tumors may interfere with eating, potentially causing starvation. They can also obstruct vision, impairing navigation and predator detection. Unlike the symmetrical antlers of deer, these viral-induced growths are often grotesque and asymmetrical, making their appearance distinctive.