In the UK, both brown and mountain hares have suffered substantial population declines in the last century. Both are recognised as threatened species, and are included in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. A 1995 target set for brown hares, to double springtime numbers in Britain by 2010, was not achieved.
Enhancing the survival of hares, and particularly the young (leverets), would greatly assist in achieving an increase in numbers, as envisaged by the Action Plan. Yet, each year, during the breeding period, many tens of thousands of dependent leverets are left to die when pregnant and nursing females are killed.
HSI is taking urgent action to help protect these already vulnerable animals. Support our life-saving work to protect hares and other animals with a special donation today!
News
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April 18, 2013
Minister Rejects Calls for Close Season to Protect Hares
Environment Minister Richard Benyon rejected calls for a meeting to discuss the need for a statutory close season for hares, in order to protect pregnant and nursing does and their young during their sensitive breeding season.
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June 21, 2012
Talking Hares at the House of Commons
HSI UK co-hosted a reception to raise the important issue of the need for increased protection for hares at the House of Commons in London alongside colleagues from Conservatives Against Fox Hunting.
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June 21, 2012
Hare Persecution and Wildlife Crime
The fragmented 19th century legislation relating to hares is in urgent need of modernisation.
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May 23, 2012
Accessories Condoning Hare Coursing Withdrawn From Sale
HSI UK was appalled when the availability of cufflinks and other accessories bearing the words ‘I love hare coursing’ was brought to our attention. These items were being sold by a company called Sven Licht Manufactury of Berlin, and were being advertised on Amazon’s UK and International websites.