After post-tropical storm Fiona, snowshoe hares have become more prevalent across Prince Edward Island, according to a wildlife biologist from the province. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division mentioned an increase in reports from Islanders who have observed what they thought were “rabbits” in their surroundings. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not native to the region.
While there is no formal tracking data to confirm a rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory believes that changes to the landscape following Fiona make it reasonable to suspect an increase. The storm left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots across the island, creating ideal escape cover for hares with brush piles, downed trees, and thick patches of deadfall.
The increased hiding places have likely led to more hares surviving, potentially resulting in a population boost. As the debris breaks down over time and coniferous trees shed their needles, the advantage for hares will gradually diminish.
The storm’s impact also opened up the forest canopy to sunlight, promoting the growth of plants like willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry that snowshoe hares rely on for winter food. This new habitat benefits not only hares but also other wildlife such as songbirds and woodcock.
Despite the rise in hare sightings, Gregory mentioned that more hares on the ground do not necessarily mean an increase in predators on P.E.I., as predators on the island are generalists with varied diets.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them, noting that hares feed on grass and herbs in summer and are naturally wary of human interactions. Feeding hares could attract them closer to dogs, potentially leading to conflicts.
Gregory also addressed reports of hares with ticks, indicating that while it is normal to see ticks on hares, the species typically found on them are not the ones associated with Lyme disease. The presence of ticks on hares usually does not pose a significant health risk unless the infestation is severe.