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Irish hare
Scientific name: Lepus timidus hibernicus
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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.
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