Snowshoe hares have become more prevalent on Prince Edward Island following post-tropical storm Fiona, according to a wildlife biologist from the province. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division mentioned that Islanders have been observing an increase in what they believed to be “rabbits” in their surroundings. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not indigenous to the region. Gregory noted a surge in reports from residents who have spotted snowshoe hares in their yards and properties.
While there is no formal data tracking the rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory suggested that alterations to the landscape post-Fiona make it highly likely 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. This cover aids in the survival of more hares, potentially leading to an increase in their population. As the debris breaks down and coniferous trees shed their needles, the advantage gained by hares from the storm will gradually diminish.
The new growth resulting from Fiona’s impact has increased winter food availability for snowshoe hares. The storm’s impact on the forest canopy allowed for the growth of early successional plants that hares rely on for sustenance during the winter months. Gregory highlighted plants such as willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry as essential sources of winter forage for snowshoe hares.
The altered habitat benefits not just snowshoe hares but also other wildlife species like songbirds and grouse. Despite the rise in hares, Gregory mentioned that it does not necessarily translate to an increase in predators on P.E.I. Predators on the island are generalists and feed on various prey besides snowshoe hares.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them as it is unnecessary. Hares typically avoid people and are most active during specific times of the day. Feeding them could lead to unwanted consequences, such as attracting them closer to dogs, potentially resulting in harm to the hares. Gregory also addressed reports of hares with ticks, emphasizing that the tick species found on hares are not the ones linked to Lyme disease and are usually specific to wild hares and rabbits.
Overall, the increase in snowshoe hares on P.E.I. post-Fiona is attributed to the altered landscape providing better cover and food sources for these animals. Residents are advised to let the hares thrive naturally without human intervention.