Snowshoe hares have become more noticeable across Prince Edward Island following post-tropical storm Fiona, according to a wildlife biologist in the province. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division revealed that Islanders are reporting a surge in sightings of what they believe are “rabbits” in their yards. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not indigenous to the area. Gregory acknowledged the increased anecdotes of people spotting snowshoe hares around their properties but noted that determining if their numbers have risen significantly is challenging without formal tracking data.
The aftermath of the 2022 storm, which left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots across P.E.I., has created ideal escape cover for hares. The tangled brush piles and downed trees have made it difficult for predators to access hare habitats, leading to more hares surviving and potentially boosting the population. As the debris breaks down over time, Gregory expects the advantages gained by hares from the storm to gradually diminish.
The storm’s impact on the forest canopy has also benefited snowshoe hares, as it has allowed for the growth of plants crucial for their winter diet. Early successional plants like willows, grey birch, and maples provide essential forage for hares during the colder months. Gregory highlighted that this new habitat not only supports hares but also benefits other wildlife species such as songbirds and woodcock.
While the increase in snowshoe hare numbers may raise concerns about predator populations, Gregory reassured that P.E.I. predators are generalists and not solely dependent on hares for sustenance. He advised Islanders against feeding hares, emphasizing that they naturally feed on available grass and herbaceous plants in the summer and may become wary of human-provided food, which can also attract dogs that may harm the hares.
Gregory also addressed reports of hares infested with ticks, noting that the ticks commonly found on hares are not the ones associated with Lyme disease. While it is normal to see ticks on wild hares and rabbits, severe infestations could impact the animals, although they generally have minimal health effects.
