European hare

Description:

The European hare is one of the largest living members of Lagomorpha. Its head and body length can range from 48 to 75 cm with a tail length of 7 to 13 cm. The body mass can range from 2.5 to 7 kg. As with all leporids, the hare has elongated ears which, in this species, ranges from 9.4 to 11.0 cm from the notch. It also has long hind feet that have a length from 14 to 16 cm. The fur colour is grizzled yellow-brown on the back; rufous on the shoulders, legs, neck and throat; white on the underside and black on the tail and ear tips. The European hare’s fur does not turn completely white in the winter, although the sides of the head and base of the ears do develop white areas. The limb musculature of hares is adapted for high-speed endurance running in open areas.

Habitat:

European hares are native to much of continental Europe. Their range extends from northern Spain to southern Scandinavia, eastern Europe and northern parts of the Middle East and Central Asia. Hares primarily live in open fields with scattered brush for shelter. They are very adaptable and thrive in mixed farmland.

Notes:

Spotted on a flood plain of the Ijssel river in rural area of Deventer, Holland.