This species has been introduced to other parts of the world, such as North America and Australia, often for sport hunting. The European hare is a vital part of the ecosystem, known for its unique behaviors and physical adaptations that enable it to thrive in a variety of environments, from farmlands to open fields.
European hares have long, powerful legs that allow them to reach speeds of up to 70 km/h (about 43 mph) when evading predators. This makes them one of the fastest terrestrial animals and a difficult target for predators such as foxes and large birds of prey. The European hare’s body is adapted for high-speed chases with a larger heart and nostrils compared to similar-sized animals, allowing for better oxygen intake during a sprint.
Another notable feature is the European hare’s long ears, which can be over 10 cm (4 in) in length. These are not just for hearing; they also help in thermoregulation, releasing heat to help cool the hare’s body during hot weather. The color of its fur is typically brownish with a greyish-white belly, providing camouflage in its natural habitat. During winter, their fur can become more greyish, blending into the frosted landscapes.
European hares are known for their solitary and nocturnal behavior, although they are sometimes active during the day. They do not dig burrows like rabbits but instead rest in a small depression in the ground called a “form,” which offers some protection from the elements and predators. European hares are also famous for their behavior during the breeding season, which includes a phenomenon known as “boxing.” This activity, where hares stand on their hind legs and “box” at each other, is usually between a female and a male, often as the female tests the male’s fitness as a mate or wards off unwelcome advances.
Distribution
Albania
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Bolivia
Bosnia And Herz.
Brazil
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
Croatia
Czechia
Denmark
Estonia
Falkland Islands
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Hungary
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Kazakhstan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Moldova
Montenegro
Netherlands
New Zealand
North Macedonia
Paraguay
Poland
Romania
Russia
Réunion
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Syria
Turkey
Ukraine
United Kingdom
United States
UruguayAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
