How does food availability affect snowshoe hare movement?

Habitat and Food Selection

Snowshoe hares are herbivores, relying heavily on the browse of willow, birch, and aspen trees for sustenance during the winter months. In areas with dense coniferous forests, hares may travel farther to reach preferred foraging areas. For example, a study in Alaska found that hares were most active in areas with an abundance of willow and birch, often traveling up to 300 meters to reach these high-quality foraging areas.

Movement Patterns in Response to Food Availability

Research has shown that snowshoe hares exhibit altered movement patterns in response to changes in food availability. During periods of low food availability, such as during harsh winters or when preferred browse is scarce, hares become more erratic in their movements, often traveling shorter distances and engaging in more frequent, local movements. This increased movement can make them more vulnerable to predators, including beagles used for hunting. In contrast, hares in areas with abundant food tend to move longer distances, often following established travel corridors and exhibiting more predictable movement patterns.

Implications for Hunting and Tracking

Understanding the relationship between snowshoe hare movement and food availability can be valuable for hunters and trackers. By identifying areas with high-quality foraging habitats and recognizing the movement patterns of hares in response to food availability, hunters can increase their chances of success. For example, tracking hares in areas with abundant willow and birch browse during the winter months may yield better results than tracking in areas with scarce food sources.