Species MammalsArctic Hare

Arctic Hare

Lepus arcticus

UncommonMammal
Illustration of Arctic Hare (Lepus arcticus)

The Arctic Hare is a stocky, large-eared hare that remains white year-round in the High Arctic, where snow may persist for most of the year. It has remarkably dense fur and reduced ear surface area compared to southern hares, minimizing heat loss in extreme cold. Arctic hares sometimes gather in groups of hundreds, though the purpose of this aggregation is not fully understood.

Habitat
High Arctic tundra, rocky slopes, and coastal barrens
Diet
Willows, sedges, mosses, and frozen vegetation
How common
Uncommon

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