The Brown hare is most often seen bounding across fields in a zig-zag pattern, or ‘boxing’ in the spring mating season. Brown hares graze on vegetation and nibble bark from young trees and bushes. Hares shelter in a ‘form’, which is simply a shallow depression in the ground or grasses. They are commonest in grassland and at woodland edges, and are found throughout mainland Britain with the exception of northern Scotland.
Action Needed
- Develop coherent agri environment/climate schemes, within the Regional Land use Partnership structure, to provide habitat
- Develop and implement a coherent Scottish Nature Network so actions can be targeted to support species and habitats
- Ensure the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy addresses the IPBES drivers fully.
Threats
Once common, the Brown hare has declined dramatically due to changing agricultural practices affecting its favoured grassland habitats. Shooting and coursing have also had an impact.
MSP Nature Champion
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