Snowshoe Hare Animal Information
Snowshoe Hare (Lepus americanus) - As you walk along the snow covered landscape, the Snowshoe blasts out of its hiding spot (as if someone lit a fire under his behind). Quickly you raise your gun, only to catch a small glimpse of what could have been supper, twisting and turning through the dense underbrush. Oh well, better luck next time. The Snowshoe Hare gets its name from its hind feet that have webbing between the toes, just like snowshoes. This allows the Hare to stay on top of the snow while trying to outrun predators, such as the fox and lynx. During the winter, the Snowshoe’s white coat helps him blend into the snow. While the summer months he turns brown, blending in with the forest floor. The Snowshoe goes through population cycles like the Grouse and Ptarmigan. Their population peaks approximately every 10 years followed by a rapid decline. Snowshoes can be found throughout Canada, the Northern United States and the Rocky Mountain regions. Snowshoes are about twice the size of a cottontail rabbit and weigh around two to three and a half pounds.
