Snowshoe hares have become 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 observed an increase in the number of “rabbits” being spotted by Islanders. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not native to the area.
While there is no formal tracking data confirming the rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory believes that changes in the landscape post-Fiona make it reasonable to suspect an increase. The storm left behind dense debris in forests across P.E.I., providing ideal escape cover for hares.
The aftermath of the storm also led to increased winter food availability for hares, as it allowed early successional plants to flourish. Gregory mentioned that willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry are prime sources of forage for snowshoe hares during winter.
The new habitat benefits not only hares but also other wildlife species like songbirds and grouse. Gregory emphasized that more hares on the ground do not necessarily translate to more predators on the island, as predators in P.E.I. are generalists.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them, as they primarily feed on grass and herbaceous plants in summer. Feeding hares could lead them closer to dogs, potentially causing harm. Gregory also addressed concerns about ticks on hares, noting that while tick sightings are common, they usually do not pose a serious health risk unless the infestation is severe.