Wildlife

Wild Hare UK Population and Coursing

Conservation status of brown hares in the UK and welfare concerns related to hare coursing, an illegal but persistent practice.

Key Facts

Brown hare populations have declined by 80% in the UK since the 1880s
Agricultural intensification and loss of habitat are primary drivers of decline
Illegal hare coursing using dogs causes significant distress and injury to hares
Police rural crime units have significantly increased coursing prosecutions
Hares have no legal close season in England, making spring leverets vulnerable

Welfare Considerations

Hares face welfare threats from both population decline and direct persecution through illegal coursing. Coursing causes extreme fear, physical injury, and death. The combination of population pressure and direct killing makes hare welfare a serious ongoing concern.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected hare coursing activity immediately to police
Support organizations campaigning for a close season for hares in England
Advocate for farmland management that creates suitable hare habitat