Snowshoe hares are becoming more prevalent on Prince Edward Island following post-tropical storm Fiona, according to a wildlife biologist from the province. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division has noted an increase in sightings of what Islanders are referring to as “rabbits” in their yards. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not native to the area.
While there is no formal data tracking the rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory believes that changes in the landscape post-Fiona make it plausible that their numbers have grown. The storm left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots across the island, providing ideal escape cover for hares with brush piles, downed trees, and thick patches of deadfall.
This enhanced cover allows more hares to survive, potentially leading to a population increase. As the debris breaks down and coniferous trees shed their needles over time, the advantage gained by hares post-storm will gradually diminish.
The storm’s impact on the forest canopy has also led to increased growth of plants that hares rely on for winter food. Early successional plants like willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry now offer prime forage availability for snowshoe hares during the colder months.
The new habitat benefits not only hares but also other wildlife species such as songbirds and grouse. However, the restoration of some stands, like white spruce, to their pre-Fiona state may take decades.
While more hares may be present, predator numbers on P.E.I. are not necessarily linked to the hare population as predators on the island are generalists.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advises against feeding them, as hares usually feed on grass and herbaceous plants in the summer. Feeding hares can attract them closer to dogs, posing risks to both the hares and pets.
Reports of hares with ticks have also been increasing, but the tick species commonly found on hares are not the ones associated with Lyme disease. Gregory reassures that tick infestations on hares typically have no serious health consequences unless severe.