India, Aug. 14 -- Rabbits with tentacles in northern Colorado have been drawing attention in recent photos and headlines, showing cottontail rabbits around Fort Collins with long, dangling growths on their faces, The Denver Post reported.

But as concerning as they appear, the virus that causes the dark, wart-like growths is relatively common and usually not anything to worry about, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials said Wednesday.

The growths are caused by rabbit or shope papilloma virus, which is spread between cottontail rabbits through direct contact or biting insects such as fleas and ticks, Parks and Wildlife spokesperson Kara Van Hoose said.

Shope papilloma virus can't spread to humans or other pets, although both should avoi...