The recent increase in snowshoe hare sightings on Prince Edward Island (PEI) following the post-tropical storm Fiona has sparked curiosity and concern among residents. While the exact population growth remains uncertain, a provincial wildlife biologist, Garry Gregory, attributes the phenomenon to the storm's impact on the local landscape. The storm's aftermath left behind dense debris, creating ideal escape cover for snowshoe hares and providing them with more places to hide and survive. This increased cover has led to a bump in the hare population, as more hares can now evade predators. However, Gregory warns that this advantage will gradually diminish as the debris breaks down and coniferous trees regain their needles, returning to their pre-storm state.
The storm's impact on the forest canopy also opened up sunlight, allowing early successional plants to thrive, which hares rely on for food during winter. This new growth provides a prime source of winter forage for snowshoe hares, consisting of twigs and buds from species like willows, grey birch, some maples, and pin cherry. The abundance of food and cover has likely contributed to the increased sightings, but Gregory reassures that the situation is not cause for alarm.
One interesting aspect of this scenario is the potential impact on predators. In northern Canada, lynx populations are closely tied to snowshoe hare cycles, with predator numbers rising and falling alongside hare populations. However, PEI's predators are generalists, meaning they have a diverse diet and are not solely dependent on hares. This distinction is crucial in understanding the ecological dynamics of the region.
For Islanders, the presence of snowshoe hares in their yards may raise concerns about tick infestations and Lyme disease. However, Gregory clarifies that the tick species commonly found on hares are not the ones of concern for Lyme disease and are generally specific to wild hares and rabbits. He advises against feeding the hares, as it could lead to them becoming more active around dogs, which may pose a threat. Overall, the increase in snowshoe hare sightings post-Fiona is a fascinating ecological phenomenon, offering insights into the resilience and adaptability of local wildlife in the face of natural disasters.
