Snowshoe Hares are found in the forests of Canada, Alaska, and the northern mountainous areas of the United States. They are smaller than other Hares (14-20 in long) and have smaller ears. They turn white in winter, except for the tips of their ears that remain black. Their large furry feet help them to walk on snow.
Snowshoe Hares prefer forested areas with dense undergrowth where they can hide and shelter. They feed at night, following well-used trails to nibble on plants, grasses, and leaves as well as twigs and bark in winter. Hares move very quickly and have several litters each year.
Hares, such as the Snowshoe Hares and the White-tailed Jackrabbits, are larger than Rabbits and typically have longer hind legs and bigger ears. Baby hares are born with fur and their eyes are open. On the other hand, baby rabbits are furless and their eyes are closed when they're born.
Did you know? Snowshoe Hares are usually silent, but they snort when they're annoyed. Males and females make a clicking sound with each other during breeding season and the does use this sound with their young.
See Also: Cottontail Rabbit, White-tailed Jackrabbit
