Can inclement weather improve snowshoe hare visibility on the trail?

Weather Conditions Favoring Visibility

Inclement weather, including blizzards and heavy snowfall, can increase the chances of spotting snowshoe hares on the trail. A study in the Canadian Rockies found that hares were more active and visible during periods of high snowfall, which reduced visibility and forced them to move more frequently. Hunters should take advantage of these conditions by venturing out during or immediately after snowstorms, when the hares are more active and vulnerable.

Snow Depth and Tracking

When hunting in areas with deep snow, it’s essential to understand how snow depth affects hare behavior and tracking. Snow depths above 12 inches can reduce the visibility of hare tracks, making it more challenging to follow them. However, this also means that hares are more likely to use existing trails and paths, which can be easier to follow. Hunters should use snowshoes or skis to traverse the terrain and look for areas with minimal snow cover, as these are likely to be hare trails.

Beagle Performance in Inclement Weather

Beagles, commonly used for snowshoe hare hunting, have an advantage in inclement weather. Their keen sense of smell and ability to follow faint scents are less affected by heavy snow and strong winds. In fact, studies have shown that beagles can follow hare tracks in snow depths up to 18 inches, making them an excellent choice for hunting in these conditions. Hunters should use their beagles’ strengths to their advantage by releasing them in areas with minimal snow cover and allowing them to follow the hares’ scent.