Irish hare

Taxonomy chart

Animalia - Chordata - Mammalia - Lagomorph - Leporidae - Lepus - L. timidus - L. t. hibernicus

Species information

Habitat: Upland & moorland.

Description: Sub-species of the mountain hare and very similar with exception that they do not grow a white winter coat and are noticeably smaller. Fur colouration is a reddish brown in summer and a grey brown colour in winter. Eyes are large on the side of the head and a pure white tail.

Size: 52-56cm in Ireland.

Weight: Approx 2.5 – 3.5kg – females slightly heavier than males.

Lifespan: 3-4 years on average.

Origin and distribution

The genetically very distinct Irish hare form, Lepus timidus hibernicus, is found throughout Ireland.

Diet

Herbivores that feed on grasses, heather, herbs and sedges as well as willow, gorse and bilberry in winter.