Snowshoe hares have become more noticeable across Prince Edward Island following post-tropical storm Fiona, as stated by a wildlife biologist in the province. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division mentioned an increase in sightings of what people thought were “rabbits” in their yards. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not indigenous to the area. Gregory acknowledged the surge in reports of snowshoe hares spotted in yards and properties, although determining if there has been a greater number than usual is challenging. Despite the absence of formal tracking data confirming a rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory suggested that changes in the landscape since Fiona suggest a probable increase.
Following the 2022 storm, debris left behind in forests and woodlots across P.E.I. has provided ideal escape cover for hares, including brush piles, downed trees, and dense patches of deadfall. This cover has enabled more hares to survive, potentially leading to a population boost. Gregory explained that as the debris breaks down and coniferous trees shed their needles over time, the advantages hares gained from the storm will gradually diminish.
The storm’s impact also allowed early successional plants to flourish due to the sunlight penetrating the forest canopy, providing essential winter food sources for hares like willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry. This growth peak during winter offers hares twigs and buds for sustenance during colder months. This new habitat not only benefits snowshoe hares but also supports other wildlife such as chestnut-sided and yellow warblers, American woodcock, and ruffed grouse.
While a rise in snowshoe hare numbers may not necessarily lead to an increase in predators on P.E.I., Gregory highlighted that predators on the island are generalists and consume a variety of prey, including snowshoe hares. For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them as it is unnecessary and could attract them closer to potential threats like dogs. Moreover, he addressed concerns about ticks on hares, emphasizing that the tick species commonly found on hares are not associated with Lyme disease and pose minimal health risks unless the infestation is severe.
