As daylight dazzles through the trees and temperatures gradually warm, we begin to see captivating sights of spring: creatures come out of hiding and flowers flourish, absorbing the elements of the new season. You might start to see signs of the Hare – traditionally linked with the month of March – known for its elongated ears, leaping legs, and boxing behaviour. 

Three species of hare are resident in the United Kingdom: Brown hare (Lepus europaeus), Mountain hare (Lepus timidus) and Irish hare (Lepus timidus hibernicus). In Wiltshire, brown hares are mostly spotted, though they are most frequently seen in Eastern England.

A brief history of the hare

Brown Hares are not native to the UK. The species originally came from mainland Europe across the North Sea during the Roman era or perhaps as early as the Iron Age, but are now considered naturalised.

Renowned for reaching speeds up to 40- 45 miles per hour, hares are considered the country's fastest land mammal. They are solitary, spending most of their time alone, however, they come to breed between February and September, producing three to four litters of two to four babies (known as leverets) annually.

It is during the breeding season that you may see the famous ‘boxing matches’ between female and male hares – an activity that has landed them the saying ‘mad as a March hare.’ They occur when the females, as the fighters, try to fend off the persistent advances of the male opponent. The two hares stand on their hind legs, battling with their front paws. These tournaments can go on for weeks throughout the season.

When and where to spot them?

Early spring, when buds start to bloom and longer days linger, is when Brown Hares are most abundant. They are most visible at dawn and dusk in open rolling fields with hedgerows, farmland, wetlands and woodland edges.

Keep an eye out for signs of their presence, such as: 

Footprints: Find long hind footprints with forefoot prints often between them, depending on how fast they're travelling. 

Droppings: Greenish and brown colour, relatively large and flat appearance, with a sweet and damp scent

Protecting Brown Hare populations

Globally, populations of brown hares are decreasing, as recognised by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Habitat loss, illegal hunting, and agricultural practices are the most common threats.

In the UK, legislation such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 protects brown hares. They are also listed as a priority species under the Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. However, hares are still addressed as game species and do not have a closed season for hunting, meaning they can be legally shot at any time, even during their breeding season. 

What can you do to support these hopping hares?

Getting involved in conservation efforts to support this ancient species can help protect future populations. Listed below are a few ways you can make a difference.

• Research: Continue to learn new information about hares and share interesting facts with friends and family
• Engagement: Raise awareness about them through blogging, photography and starting conversations that celebrate hares in our environment
• Legislation: Help advocate and support stronger legal protection for hares, including more sustainable land management practices
• Volunteer: Join in protecting the hares' environment by getting stuck in helping local Wildlife Trust initiatives, such as habitat management and conservation practices 

As you head out for your next spring stroll this March, keep your eyes peeled to look out for signs of brown hares in the landscape, and if you’re lucky, spot them charging across the fields or pulling out the boxing gloves!