The European hare (Lepus europaeus) is a medium-sized, long-eared mammal in the family Leporidae. It is native to Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and South America.
The European hare is the largest hare species in Europe, with adults typically measuring 60–70 cm (24–28 in) in length and weighing 2.5–7 kg (5.5–15.4 lb). They have a long, slender body with long, powerful hind legs and a short tail. The fur is brown or gray in summer, and turns white in winter.
European hares are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural fields. They are most common in areas with plenty of food and cover.
European hares are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, and fruits. They will also eat bark, buds, and twigs. European hares are ruminants, which means that they have a four-chambered stomach that helps them to digest their food.
European hares are preyed upon by a variety of animals, including foxes, wolves, and birds of prey. They are also hunted by humans for their meat and fur.
European hares are social animals and they live in groups called warrens. Warrens can contain up to 50 individuals, but most warrens contain only a few hares.
The breeding season for European hares is from February to July. Females give birth to a litter of 1-6 leverets after a gestation period of about 42 days. Leverets are born with their eyes open and they are able to run within minutes of birth. They are nursed by their mother for about 6 weeks.
European hares can live for up to 10 years in the wild. However, most hares do not live that long and are killed by predators or hunted by humans.
European hares are an important part of the ecosystem. They help to control populations of plants and animals, and they are a food source for other animals. European hares are also a popular game animal and they are hunted for their meat and fur.
Here are some additional facts about European hares:
European hares are the fastest land mammals in Europe. They can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h (43 mph).
European hares are polygynous, which means that a male will mate with multiple females.
European hares are an important part of the ecosystem. They help to control populations of plants and animals, and they are a food source for other animals.
European hares are a popular game animal and they are hunted for their meat and fur.
