Mountain HareLepus timidusWhere and when to see them

The mountain hare is a cold-adapted hare native across northern Eurasia, with Scotland supporting a distinctive native population in Britain. Scottish animals usually change from a brownish or gray summer coat to a much paler winter coat. This seasonal camouflage works best when snow cover matches the molt. Upland land management, climate change and local population fluctuations all influence its prospects, even though the species remains widespread globally.

Size

45-65 cm body length

Weight

2-4 kg

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Mountain hares rest in shallow sheltered depressions rather than underground burrows, relying on concealment and rapid escape. Feeding is often concentrated around dusk, dawn and nighttime, although daytime activity occurs. Several animals may gather where feeding conditions are favorable, especially in winter. Breeding can involve energetic chasing and boxing, while mothers visit well-concealed young briefly rather than staying beside them and attracting attention. Hares often create 'forms' by pressing down vegetation, which provides a slight depression for resting and concealment. During periods of high activity, particularly breeding, they exhibit a characteristic 'mad March hare' behaviour, involving vigorous leaps and chases. They communicate through thumping their hind legs on the ground as an alarm signal and emit high-pitched screams when distressed.

• Scottish mountain hares are commonly assigned to the subspecies Lepus timidus scoticus.
• Their coat molt is influenced strongly by changing day length.
• Young hares are born furred and with their eyes open.
• They rest in surface depressions called forms rather than digging rabbit-like burrows.

Observation is possible year-round, but spring and summer offer longer daylight and easier upland access. Winter coats can aid detection on snow-free ground, yet winter conditions increase disturbance costs and walking hazards. Choose calm weather and avoid pursuing resting animals. Late winter and early spring are excellent for observing their gradual coat change, with patches of white and brown visible. During the breeding season in early spring, male hares may be more conspicuous due to increased activity. Calm, overcast days can sometimes lead to more prolonged daytime activity, especially outside the core feeding hours.

In Scotland, mountain hares are associated chiefly with upland heath, heather moorland and mountain slopes. Patches of cover and accessible forage are important. Most coastal itineraries require an inland excursion, although some island and coastal uplands also support populations. While primarily found in uplands, some populations persist in fragmented lowland agricultural areas or coniferous plantations, particularly in northern Scotland. Their range has contracted in parts of Scotland due to habitat loss and changes in land use. They demonstrate adaptability by using forestry tracks and firebreaks for movement and foraging.

Grasses, sedges, herbs and heather feature prominently, with the balance changing seasonally and locally. Woody shoots become more important when snow limits other foods. Like other lagomorphs, they reingest soft droppings to recover nutrients produced during hindgut fermentation. In spring, they frequently graze on young shoots of cotton grass and blaeberry. During severe weather, they may gnaw on bark from saplings or fallen branches for sustenance. Their diet provides essential hydration as they rarely drink standing water, obtaining moisture from vegetation.

Common name

Mountain Hare

Scientific name

Lepus timidus

Animal group

Mammals

Size

45-65 cm body length

Weight

2-4 kg

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Identification

Compared with the brown hare, it has shorter ears, a more compact build and a tail that remains white rather than showing a prominent black upper surface. The black tips of their ears, visible year-round, are a key distinguishing feature from the snowshoe hare found elsewhere. Their fur is noticeably thicker than a brown hare's, adapting them to colder climates. In winter, their white coat often retains a slightly bluish or greyish tinge.