Hare (Mammal)

ARTICLE CONTENTS:  |  Links to Other Sites
Hare is a term applied to midsized herbivores of the order LAGOMORPHA whose young are born fully haired, with eyes open, and able to run about a few minutes after birth. All North American hares belong to the genus Lepus; 3 species are native to Canada, one has been introduced.

Arctic Hare

The northernmost species, arctic hare (L. arcticus), found in the TUNDRA zone beyond the treeline, is the largest Canadian species, with adults weighing 3.2-5.4 kg.

Snowshoe Hare

Snowshoe or varying hare (L. americanus) are widespread throughout Canadian forested areas and provide meat to humans in remote communities. Snowshoe hares exhibit enormous population fluctuations, peaking every 9-10 years. Numbers vary from approximately one hare per 50 ha to upwards of 200 per ha.

Other Species

The remaining native species, white-tailed jack rabbit (L. townsendii), largely nocturnal and solitary, is found throughout the PRAIRIES. In 1912 the European or Cape hare (L. europaeus) was introduced to Ontario as a game ANIMAL. Restricted to Ontario, it is sometimes a garden pest. Unlike native species, it does not turn white in winter.

Reproduction and Development

Young hares (leverets) are born in the open and are weaned after 2-3 weeks (5-6 in white-tailed jack rabbits). Gestation averages 36 days and, depending on the species, a litter contains 1-7 young, with up to 4 litters born over a summer. Female hares are usually larger than males; hares are larger than RABBITS.
Arctic Hare
Arctic Hare
Snowshoe or varying hare (L. americanus) are widespread throughout Canadian forested areas (Corel Professional Photos).
Hare Distribution
Hare Distribution
Snowshoe Hare Distribution
Snowshoe Hare Distribution

Author M.L. WESTON


Links to Other Sites
Snowshoe Hare
See a description of the natural history and typical habitat of the Snowshoe Hare in Canada. From the "Hinterland Who's Who" website. Also includes video clips, summaries of related conservation issues, and educational resources.

Canadian Biodiversity Website
A great information source for all budding biologists. Learn about biodiversity theory, natural history, and conservation issues. From McGill’s Redpath Museum.

Arctic Hare
An online exhibit that explores the art and science inspired by the arctic hare (Lepus arcticus). From the Virtual Museum of Canada.

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