Quick Answer
Snowshoe Hares prefer certain types of vegetation, particularly dense shrubs and thick undergrowth, where they can find shelter and protection from predators. They also rely on specific types of trees for food and nesting sites. This preference is a key factor in their habitat selection and survival.
Habitat Preferences
Snowshoe Hares are often found in areas with dense vegetation, particularly shrubs like willow, alder, and birch. These shrubs provide shelter from harsh winter conditions and protection from predators like coyotes and owls. In addition, the dense undergrowth of these shrubs allows hares to move undetected, making them effective hunters.
Food Sources
In the winter, snowshoe hares rely on the cambium layer of trees for food. The cambium layer is a layer of tissue just beneath the bark that contains nutrients. Hares use their sharp teeth to scrape the cambium layer from trees, which provides them with a vital source of nutrition during the winter months. They prefer trees like aspen, birch, and willow, which have a high concentration of nutrients in their cambium layer.
Tracking in Winter Conditions
When tracking snowshoe hares in winter, beagles can be trained to follow their tracks in deep snow. The key is to look for the distinctive “snowshoe” pattern of the hare’s hind foot, which leaves a characteristic impression in the snow. By following this pattern, beagles can track hares even in deep snow, where their tracks might otherwise be difficult to see.
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