Snowshoe hares have become more prevalent on Prince Edward Island following post-tropical storm Fiona, according to a wildlife biologist in the province. Garry Gregory from P.E.I.’s fish and wildlife division noted an increase in sightings of what some Islanders mistakenly refer to as “rabbits” in their surroundings. However, these animals are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not indigenous to the region.
While there is no official data tracking the rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory believes that changes in the landscape post-Fiona make it plausible to assume an increase. The storm left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots across P.E.I., providing ideal escape cover for hares with brush piles, downed trees, and thick deadfall.
The increased hiding places have led to more hares surviving, potentially resulting in a population boost. Yet, as the debris breaks down and coniferous trees shed their needles over time, the advantages gained by hares from the storm will gradually diminish.
Following Fiona, the storm’s impact on the forest canopy opened up sunlight access, promoting the growth of early successional plants that hares rely on for winter food. This includes willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry, which offer prime forage availability during the colder months.
While the new habitat benefits various wildlife species like songbirds and woodcock, it may take decades for certain stands, such as white spruce, to return to their pre-storm appearance. Despite the increase in hares, Gregory mentioned that the predator-prey dynamics on P.E.I. differ from those in northern regions where predators like lynx are closely tied to snowshoe hare populations.
For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them, as the animals primarily feed on grass and herbaceous plants during summer. Feeding could attract hares closer to dogs, potentially leading to confrontations. Additionally, while reports of hares with ticks have increased, the tick species found on hares are not the primary concern for Lyme disease and generally pose no serious health risks unless the infestation is severe.