Snowshoe hares have become more prevalent on Prince Edward Island following the aftermath of post-tropical storm Fiona, according to a wildlife biologist in the province. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division mentioned an increase in sightings of what Islanders mistakenly refer to as “rabbits” in their surroundings. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are non-native to the region. Gregory acknowledged the surge in reports of people observing snowshoe hares on their properties but noted it is challenging to determine if their presence is above the usual levels.
While there is no formal data tracking the rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory suggested that alterations in the landscape post-Fiona make it reasonable to speculate on an increase. The storm left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots across P.E.I., creating ideal escape cover for hares, making them less accessible to predators. The increased hiding spots contribute to more hares surviving, potentially leading to a population boost. However, as the debris breaks down and coniferous trees lose their needles over time, the advantage hares gained from the storm will diminish gradually.
The storm’s impact also led to the growth of shade-intolerant plants that snowshoe hares rely on for winter food, such as willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry. This new habitat not only benefits hares but also supports other wildlife like songbirds and woodcock. While more hares on the ground may not necessarily translate to an increase in predators on P.E.I., Gregory highlighted that predators on the island are generalists and feed on various prey.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them, as hares primarily feed on grass and herbaceous plants, which are abundant in summer. Feeding hares could attract them closer to dogs, increasing the risk of harm. Gregory also addressed concerns about ticks on hares, emphasizing that the tick species commonly found on hares are not the ones associated with Lyme disease and typically pose no serious health threat unless the infestation is severe.