The National Hare Survey
Brown Hare (Lepus europaeus) Photo D. JonesThe hare survey is a postcard-based survey to improve our knowledge of Brown Hare Lepus europaeus (Pallas 1778) distribution in the counties of Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Montgomeryshire. At present, there are rather limited data available on hare distribution in these counties, as people tend not to report hares when they see them. The project was initiated in Ceredigion as a result of the Local Biodiversity Action Plan, which identified this gap in our knowledge, and the fact that anecdotal evidence suggested that they are much more widespread than official records indicate.
The recording cards were produced with funding from the Countryside Council for Wales’s Species Challenge Fund, and the Peoples Trust for Endangered Species, and are available from the Trust. Data are continuing to come in, and we are starting to build up a good picture of hare distribution. So far, most records have been received from Ceredigion, and least from Pembrokeshire, where we already know there are not many hares, making the records all the more valuable. We would be delighted to hear from anyone who is able to help with this survey. Knowing more about hare distribution will enable us to think about more targeted work to assess their population status and undertake conservation efforts to help the species.
If you are interested in the survey, would like a recording card, or would like to report a hare sighting by email, please contact Dr Lizzie Wilberforce on l.wilberforce@welshwildlife.org.
Useful Information:
National Brown Hare action plan