Brown hare

Scientific name: Lepus europaeus

The brown hare is known for its long, black-tipped ears and fast running - it can reach speeds of 45mph when evading predators.

Species information

Statistics

Length: 50-70cm
Weight: 2-5kg
Average lifespan: 2-4 years

Conservation status

Introduced, but naturalised species. Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.

When to see

January to December

About

Thought to have been introduced into the UK in Roman times (or even earlier), the brown hare is now considered naturalised. It is most common on open farmland, in grassland habitats and at woodland edges, favouring a mosaic of arable fields, grasses and hedgerows. It grazes on vegetation and the bark of young trees and bushes. Brown hares do not dig burrows, but shelter in 'forms', which are shallow depressions in the ground or grass; when disturbed, they can be seen bounding across the fields, using their powerful hind legs to propel them forwards, often in a zigzag pattern. Brown hares are at their most visible in early spring when the breeding season encourages fighting or 'boxing'. Females can produce three to four litters of two to four young (known as leverets) a year.

How to identify

The brown hare is golden-brown, with a pale belly and a white tail. It is larger than the rabbit, with longer legs and longer ears with distinctive black tips.

In our area

There has been a substantial decline in hare numbers which began over a hundred years ago. This is due to changes in farming practices, habitat fragmentation, traffic deaths and shooting. Although brown hares are distributed widely in Shropshire it is currently regarded as an animal of conservation concern, many Shropshire Wildlife Trust sites are managed with hare's in mind, including across the Stiperstones and the Meres and Mosses.

Distribution

Widespread across the UK but declining.

Habitats

Did you know?

If you spot brown hares 'boxing' in the fields, it is most likely that you are watching a female warding off the advances of an amorous male, not two males fighting. If a fight does happen, the two hares will stand on their hind legs and attack each other with their front paws, pulling out fur. This gives the impression of two boxers in a ring.