Wildlife Welfare

Wild Hare Population Welfare and Habitat Management

Brown hares have declined significantly across Europe, with agricultural intensification reducing habitat diversity needed for their welfare and survival.

Key Facts

Brown hare populations in the UK have declined by 80% since the 1960s
Hares are entirely above-ground animals with no underground refuges
Spring coursing and hunting add welfare costs to already stressed populations
Field margin restoration significantly benefits hare populations
Leverets are left alone by does for most of the day to reduce predator attention

Welfare Considerations

Hares face welfare challenges from habitat loss, predation, hunting, and agricultural operations. As above-ground animals, they are particularly vulnerable to machinery and have no refuge. Population-level welfare is closely linked to habitat quality, and agri-environment schemes that restore field margins are among the most effective interventions.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes including field margin creation
Advocate for hare coursing bans where they remain legal
Record hare sightings to contribute to population monitoring