6305-Snow Rabbit 34 cm.L

Snowshoe Hare 

Description Commonly known as varying hare or snowshoe hare, snowshoe rabbit is a species of hare found in the vast of North America. It is a very tamed mammal that grew up to 52 cm in length. Snowshoe got its name due to its larger hind feet which prevents it from sinking into snow as it hops or walks. Its feet also have fur on soles to protect it from freezing during winter season. Its ears are shorter than a usual hare. Furthermore, its fur makes it unique because it changes color from rusty brown during summer season to pure white during winter. Most of snowshoe’s feature contribute to its camouflaging and survival in the wild. The presence of a cover is the primary qualification of a snowshoe hare to its habitat. It is very suitable in young forests with abundant understories and fairly dense vegetation. It also tends to build well-worn forests path to serve as guide during its feed. It primarily feeds on plants such as shrubs, grass, twigs and buds. It can also be carnivorous only under the availability of dead animals like rodents to sustain its protein supply. Snowshoe never hunts rather scavenge for food. It is almost a nocturnal in behavior for it is shy and secretive and spends most of the day on shallow depressions. It is mainly active at night and does not hibernate even during winter season. Diurnal activities of snowshoe only increase during mating and breeding season. Breeding generally begins in late December to January and lasts until July or August. Its gestation period averagely lasts for 37 days. Female hare can mate to more than one male counterpart; and because snowshoe hare has twin uteri, female can conceive even before the first litter is born. Snowshoe hare may have up to four litters in a year which averages three to five young per litter.

Status According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, Snowshoe hare is categorized as Least Concern. Its population is widespread and overall healthy but has potential concern on Southern portion of its range. A potential threat to this species is excessive habitual loss and fragmentation.