Wild Hare Population Decline and Welfare

Brown hare populations have declined dramatically across Europe due to agricultural intensification, and surviving individuals face welfare risks from hunting, coursing, and habitat loss.

Key Facts

Brown hare populations declined by over 80% in the UK during the 20th century
Agricultural intensification removing hedgerows and autumn stubble removed key hare habitat
Leverets are born above ground and vulnerable to machinery during silage cutting
Hare coursing using dogs remains legal in some countries and causes significant welfare harm
Agri-environment scheme habitat management has partially reversed declines in some areas

Welfare Considerations

Brown hares living in intensively farmed landscapes face constant welfare risks from machinery strikes during crop operations, exposure in habitats stripped of cover, and hunting pressure. Hare coursing — in which dogs chase hares competitively — causes distress, injury, and death. Silage machinery kills large numbers of leverets each spring. Agri-environment measures creating field margins, hedgerows, and overwinter stubble fields provide both habitat and welfare protection for hares.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes providing hare habitat through conservation groups
Advocate for bans on hare coursing in jurisdictions where it remains legal
Encourage farmers in your area to join countryside stewardship schemes benefiting hares
Learn about brown hare ecology and participate in local population monitoring programs