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Snowshoe Hare
(Lepus americanus)
Weight:
Length:
Tail:
Litter Size:
Gestation:
Top Speed:
 1.4 kg
40-50 cm
4-5 cm
2-4
36 days
27 mph
Status:
Because the hare reproduces quickly, population densities can range from 1 to 10,000 hares per square mile. They are used as a main source of meat for many predators including the bobcat and lynx. These predators strengthen the population by preventing overpopulation, which can destroy vegetation and cause starvation in not only hares, but other animals such as deer as well. When the predators are not there, the population may be more prone to disease and starvation.
Report by Catamount
 Physical Characteristics
The snowshoe hare is a medium-sized rabbit. Its feet are long (11-15 cm). With the toes spread apart, and the soles of their feet furry, the snowshoe hare is adapted for traveling in the snow. The snowshoe hare is noted for changing color; in the winter the snowshoe is almost all white, and in the winter the fur color changes to a grayish-brown. The males are smaller than the females which is characteristic of hares and rabbits. The snowshoe can run up to 27 mph and can jump 10 feet in one hop.

Habitat and Daily Life
The snowshoe hare is found in northern sections of the United States and most of Canada. They live in tundra, taiga, open fields, forests, and along riversides and swamps. They are typically solitary but live in high densities of up to 10,000 per square mile. They are most active just before sunset to just after sunrise.

The speedy snowshoe is an expert in fleeing from a wolf, bobcat, lynx, or other predator. Young, when alerted of danger, will freeze so that they do not bring attention to themselves. Adults will run; as the predator pursues the hare it will quickly change direction to throw the hungry animal off balance. Hares are also good swimmers and will jump in the water to make an escape if the opportunity is given.

Reproduction
Breeding season begins in mid-March and end in August. Hares can have up to four litters in a single season with an average of two to four offspring, although they can have up to eight. The young are born fully furred.