Several rabbits in Colorado have developed a startling appearance, with dark, horn-like growths sprouting from their heads and fleshy lumps around their faces. These bizarre features have led some people on social media to compare them to creatures from a scary movie.

However, wildlife officials explain there is no reason for alarm. The rabbits are infected with a virus specific to their species, called cottontail rabbit papillomavirus. According to Kara Van Hoose, a representative for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the virus is not dangerous to humans, dogs, cats, or any other animals.

The virus is spread by insects like mosquitoes and fleas, especially during the summer. It causes wart-like tumors to grow on a rabbit’s skin. While the growths may look disturbing, most wild rabbits recover from the infection on their own. The main concern would be if the growths block the rabbit’s eyesight or prevent it from eating.

The agency began receiving calls about the unusual rabbits after a resident in Fort Collins reported one on Friday. Since then, they have gotten more than a dozen similar reports from northern parts of the state.

While the virus is usually not serious for wild rabbits, it can be much more severe for pet rabbits. It can lead to cancer in domestic breeds. Officials advise pet owners to keep their rabbits indoors to prevent contact with insects that might carry the virus. If a pet rabbit shows signs of infection, it should be taken to a veterinarian.

For the wild rabbits, the best thing people can do is leave them alone. Officials ask that people not try to feed them or interact with them. Instead, they suggest simply observing the unique animals from a distance.