Mountain Hare
Lepus timidus
Overview
Mountain hares live on the high fells. Helvellyn, Coniston. White in winter. Brown in summer. They're shy. You need to walk. Dawn and dusk. Or winter when the snow makes them stand out.
At a Glance
| Order | Lagomorpha |
| Family | Leporidae |
| Habitat | Mountain moorland · High fells · Above treeline |
| Diet | Heather, grasses, bark |
| UK population | Around 350,000 in Scotland. Small introduced populations in England. |
| Lake District | Introduced to the Lake District fells. Helvellyn, Coniston Old Man. White in winter. Brown in summer. High ground. |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
High fells. The Helvellyn range, the Coniston fells, the eastern fells. Above the treeline. Introduced to the Lakes.
Identification
Smaller than brown hare. White in winter. Brown in summer. Shorter ears than brown hare.
Viewing & Photography Tips
High fells. Winter for white coat. Dawn and dusk. They're shy. Walk quietly.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is of serious conservation concern in the UK. Its presence in the Lake District is important for local and national monitoring and habitat management.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.