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 has observed an increase in the number of “rabbits” being spotted in yards by Islanders. However, these animals are not rabbits, as rabbits are not native to the province. Gregory confirmed that what people are seeing are most likely snowshoe hares.
Although there is no formal tracking data to confirm a rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory believes that changes to the landscape post-Fiona make it reasonable to assume an increase. The storm left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots across P.E.I., creating ideal escape cover for hares such as brush piles, downed trees, and patches of deadfall.
With more hiding places available, more hares are able to survive, potentially leading to a population surge. As the debris breaks down and coniferous trees shed their needles over time, the advantage hares gained post-storm will gradually diminish.
The storm also facilitated new growth by opening up the forest canopy to sunlight, enabling early successional plants that hares depend on for winter food to flourish. Gregory mentioned willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry as examples of the prime winter forage for snowshoe hares.
The new habitat not only benefits hares but also other wildlife such as songbirds like chestnut-sided and yellow warblers, as well as American woodcock and ruffed grouse. However, it may take decades for certain stands, like white spruce, to return to their pre-Fiona appearance.
Gregory emphasized that an increase in hares does not necessarily mean a rise in predators on P.E.I. Unlike in northern Canada where predator populations are tied to snowshoe hare cycles, predators on the island are generalists and consume a variety of prey.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised that there is usually no issue to address, apart from potential garden nibbling. Hares typically avoid people and are most active during dawn and dusk. Feeding hares is unnecessary and could attract them closer to dogs, leading to potential harm.
Gregory also addressed concerns about hares with ticks, noting that while more reports may be due to increased photo-taking ability and tick awareness, the tick species found on hares are not the ones associated with Lyme disease. Ticks on hares are considered normal and typically pose no serious health risks unless the infestation is severe.
