Scientists Tackle the Snowshoe Hare’s Camouflage Crisis: Discover How They’re Making a Difference

On a sunny spring day in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, wildlife biologist Alexej Siren made an important discovery: he found tracks of snowshoe hares in a small patch of snow. These hares are known for their large hind feet and smaller front feet, which help them hop swiftly across the snow to escape predators.

Navigating through dense forests filled with fallen trees and young spruce and fir, Siren was in an ideal habitat for these hares. In summer, they sport brown fur, blending in with the environment, but they turn white in winter. However, as climate change warms New England, these hares struggle to adapt. Some hares are "mismatched," remaining white in brown landscapes, making them easy targets for predators.

Siren tracks these populations by tagging hares and counting their droppings in the forest. This particular outing included checking game cameras to gather data. His research spans over a decade and focuses on how changes in climate impact these animals.

Interestingly, recent studies indicate a shift in some hares’ fur patterns. In regions like West Virginia and Pennsylvania, scientists found hares that don’t turn white in winter. Siren is exploring the idea of introducing these brown hares to New England to help them adapt—a strategy known as "assisted migration." However, moving animals across state lines poses challenges and risks, such as damaging source populations or failing in new environments.

Meanwhile, researchers at the University of Vermont, led by Tony D’Amato, are investigating how forest management can aid these hares. Young trees create dense cover and retain snow for longer, which is crucial for hare camouflage. D’Amato’s research shows that smaller forest openings retain snow much better than large clearings.

He emphasizes the importance of maintaining ecosystems that support snowshoe hares. By strategically thinning forests rather than clear-cutting, landowners can encourage healthier habitats. This method can increase snow retention by as much as a foot in certain areas during winter.

As these initiatives unfold, the focus remains on preserving not just the snowshoe hare but the entire boreal ecosystem they support. According to Siren, these hares are vital to their habitats, and their decline could lead to significant ecological consequences.

The snowshoe hare is more than just a charming creature; it’s a key species in the ecosystem. Protecting them means protecting a larger web of life. As climate change continues to challenge wildlife, researchers like Siren and D’Amato are finding innovative ways to adapt and help these animals thrive.

For more on the impacts of climate change on wildlife, you can refer to the United States Geological Survey.

Source link