Rumors spread online that rabbits infected with a virus that creates a tentacle-like growth on their faces were "invading" the U.S.

Wildlife officials in Colorado have confirmed a troubling rise in cases of shope papillomavirus, a rare disease causing wild rabbits to grow tentacle-like growths from their heads and mouths. While the condition is not new to science,

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.