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

A group of rabbits in Colorado with grotesque, hornlike growths may seem straight out of a low-budget horror film, but scientists say there’s no reason to be spooked — the furry creatures merely have a relatively common virus.

As weird and concerning as they appear, the virus that causes the dark, wart-like horns or tentacles to grow on cottontail rabbits is relatively common and usually not anything to worry about.