Quick Answer
Tracking snowshoe hares requires knowledge of their habitats, behavioral patterns, and physical characteristics. Beginners should start by learning to identify signs such as tracks, scat, and scrapes, and then apply that knowledge in the field. A good understanding of the hare's life cycle is also crucial for predicting activity.
Identifying Snowshoe Hare Signs
When tracking snowshoe hares, look for tracks that are about 2-3 inches long and have four toes, with the hind feet slightly larger than the front feet. Pay attention to the gait pattern, as hares tend to move in a long-striding, loping fashion. In the northern forests where hares are most commonly found, they often create scrapes by scratching the snow to communicate with other hares. You can also look for scat, which is usually small and round, about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Understanding Snowshoe Hare Behavior
Snowshoe hares are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during twilight hours, so it’s best to hunt during these times when their activity is highest. They also have a cyclical population pattern, with high numbers in the winter months and low numbers in the summer, so be aware of the local population dynamics. In areas where beagles are used for hunting, understand that hares tend to run in a zigzag pattern, often stopping to look back, which can be an effective way to set up a successful hunt.
Tracking in Winter Conditions
When tracking snowshoe hares in deep snow, use a snowshoe or skis to move quietly through the terrain. Look for areas with dense coniferous cover, as hares tend to favor these areas for shelter and food. In areas with little snow, track hares by following their scrapes and scat, and use the sun’s position to estimate their likely locations. Be sure to move slowly and deliberately, as hares have excellent hearing and can be easily spooked.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.