Snowshoe hares have become more prevalent on Prince Edward Island following post-tropical storm Fiona, according to a provincial wildlife biologist. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division noted an increase in reports from Islanders observing more “rabbits” in their surroundings. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not indigenous to the province.
While there is no official tracking data confirming a rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory suggested that alterations to the landscape post-Fiona make it plausible that their numbers have grown. The storm left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots across P.E.I., providing ideal escape cover for hares with brush piles, fallen trees, and thick deadfall.
The increased cover has enabled more hares to survive, potentially leading to a population increase. As the debris begins to decompose and coniferous trees shed their needles, the advantage hares gained from the storm will gradually diminish.
The storm not only created better hiding spots for hares but also promoted new growth crucial for their winter food sources. With the forest canopy opened up by Fiona, early successional plants such as willows, grey birch, and maples have flourished, offering prime forage for snowshoe hares during the winter months.
Gregory highlighted that the enhanced habitat benefits various wildlife species, including songbirds and other animals that utilize early successional growth. However, it may take decades for some tree species to resemble their pre-storm appearance.
Although more hares on the island do not necessarily equate to a rise in predators, Gregory explained that unlike in northern Canada, where predator populations are closely tied to snowshoe hare cycles, P.E.I. predators are generalists.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them, as hares primarily feed on grass and herbaceous plants in the summer and could become wary of human-provided food. Feeding hares may also attract them closer to dogs, posing risks.
Gregory also addressed reports of hares with ticks, noting that the tick species commonly found on hares are not the primary concern for Lyme disease. While ticks on hares are normal, severe infestations could impact the animal’s health.
