After post-tropical storm Fiona, snowshoe hares have become more prevalent on Prince Edward Island, according to a wildlife biologist from the provincial fish and wildlife division. Garry Gregory mentioned that Islanders have been observing an increase in “rabbits” in their surroundings, which are actually snowshoe hares, as rabbits are not native to the region. Although there is no formal tracking data confirming a rise in the snowshoe hare population, Gregory believes that changes in the landscape post-Fiona make it reasonable to assume an increase.

The storm left behind dense debris in forests and woodlots on the island, creating ideal escape cover for hares. With more hiding spots available, more hares are surviving, potentially leading to a population boost. As the debris breaks down over time and coniferous trees lose their needles, the advantage hares gained from the storm will gradually diminish.

The storm also facilitated the growth of early successional plants that hares rely on for winter food. This includes species like willows, grey birch, maples, and pin cherry, which provide ample forage for snowshoe hares during the colder months. The new habitat benefits other wildlife as well, such as songbirds and other animals that utilize early successional growth.

While more hares may be present on the island, Gregory mentioned that it does not necessarily equate to an increase in predators. Unlike in northern regions where predator populations fluctuate with hare cycles, predators on P.E.I. are generalists that consume a variety of prey.

For Islanders encountering hares in their yards, Gregory advised against feeding them, as hares primarily feed on grass and herbaceous growth in the summer and are usually wary of human interaction. Feeding hares could attract them closer to potential dangers like dogs. Additionally, while there have been reports of hares with ticks, the ticks commonly found on hares are not the ones associated with Lyme disease and typically pose no serious health risks unless the infestation is severe.