Explore the fascinating world of rabbits and hares hopping around England in this article. While these adorable creatures may be a common sight across the country today, they are actually not native to England. Only one species is indigenous to the entire island of Great Britain, while the other two were brought over by the ancient Romans centuries ago. Discover the three largest rabbit and hare species in England and learn more about their characteristics, habitats, and origins.
Discover the 3 Largest Rabbits and Hares Hopping Around England
England is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rabbits and hares. While these animals are commonly seen across the country, they are not actually native to the area. In fact, only one species of hare is native to Great Britain, and until its introduction further south, it was only found in Scotland. The other two species of rabbits and hares found in England were introduced by the ancient Romans over 2000 years ago. In this article, we will explore the three largest rabbits and hares hopping around England, their characteristics, habitats, and the history of their introduction.
European Hare (Lepus europaeus)
The European Hare, also known as the brown hare, is the largest of the three species found in England. They can grow to a size of 60 – 75 cm and weigh between 3 – 5 kg. European Hares have longer ears compared to their cousin, the mountain hare, and are easily distinguishable by their distinct amber eyes.
Originally native to continental Europe and Asia, the European Hare was introduced to England as a game animal. It has since been introduced to other parts of the world, including North and South America, Australia, and New Zealand. The ancient Romans are believed to have brought the European Hare to Great Britain.
European Hares are commonly found in woodland, grassland, and farmland habitats. In England, they are most commonly encountered in eastern regions. Despite being an introduced species, European Hares have adapted well to their new environment and can thrive in various habitats.
Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus)
The Mountain Hare is the only species on this list that is native to Great Britain. While it can be found in Scotland, it is also present in the Peak District of England as an introduced species. Mountain Hares are slightly smaller than European Hares, measuring between 43 – 61 cm in size and weighing around 2 – 4 kg.
One of the unique characteristics of the Mountain Hare is its coat. It has adapted to molt with the seasons, turning from white in winter to brown in spring. This color change helps the hare camouflage with its surroundings, providing better protection from predators. Mountain Hares primarily inhabit polar and montane habitats across Eurasia.
In England, Mountain Hares are mainly found in upland and moorland areas. Despite being an introduced species in the Peak District, they have successfully established themselves in their new habitat.
European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
The European Rabbit, also known as the coney, is the smallest of the three species found in England. They measure between 38 – 50 cm in size and weigh around 1.5 – 2.5 kg. Male European rabbits are usually heavier than females.
Originally native to Southwestern Europe and a portion of the Atlas Mountains in northwestern Africa, the European Rabbit was introduced to England by the ancient Romans. The Romans spread them across much of Europe, including the British Isles.
European Rabbits are the most widespread of the three lagomorphs found in England. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas. Their relatively smaller ears and shorter limbs differentiate them from the other two species.
Introduction of Rabbits and Hares in England
Rabbits and hares are not native to England, and their presence in the country can be attributed to human activities, particularly the ancient Romans. The Romans are believed to have introduced both the European Hare and the European Rabbit to England over 2000 years ago.
The European Hare and European Rabbit were introduced as game animals, providing a source of food and entertainment for the Romans. These introductions have had lasting impacts on the ecosystems of England, as both species have successfully established themselves in their new habitats.
European Hare in England
The European Hare is native to continental Europe but was introduced to Great Britain by the ancient Romans. It is now a game animal that can be found in various parts of England. The distribution of European Hares in England is most noticeable in eastern regions, where they are commonly encountered in woodland, grassland, and farmland habitats.
Despite being an introduced species, European Hares have adapted well to their new environment. They have become an integral part of the ecosystem and contribute to the biodiversity of England.
Mountain Hare in England
The Mountain Hare is the only native species of hare in Great Britain. However, it is also found as an introduced species in the Peak District of England. Mountain Hares are slightly smaller than European Hares and can be distinguished by their seasonal coat color change.
In England, Mountain Hares primarily inhabit upland and moorland habitats. Their adaptability to different environments has allowed them to establish themselves successfully in the Peak District.
European Rabbit in England
The European Rabbit is originally native to Southwestern Europe and a portion of the Atlas Mountains in northwestern Africa. The ancient Romans introduced them to England, spreading them across much of the country.
European Rabbits are the most widespread of the three lagomorphs found in England. They can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and even urban areas. Their adaptability and ability to thrive in different environments have contributed to their widespread distribution in England.
Conclusion
In conclusion, England is home to three species of rabbits and hares: the European Hare, the Mountain Hare, and the European Rabbit. These animals are not native to the country but were introduced by the ancient Romans. The European Hare is the largest of the three species, while the Mountain Hare is native to Great Britain and the European Rabbit is the smallest. Despite their non-native status, all three species have successfully established themselves in England and contribute to the biodiversity of the country.
It is also important to note that domestic rabbit breeds are derived from the wild European Rabbit. There are now over 300 breeds of domestic rabbits, and they come in a wide variety of sizes and colors. If you come across a lost or abandoned domestic rabbit in the wild, it is essential to contact a local rabbit rescue for assistance.
Summary of the 3 Largest Rabbits and Hares Hopping Around England:
- European Hare (Lepus europaeus)
- Size: 60 – 75 cm
- Weight: 3 – 5 kg
- Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus)
- Size: 43 – 61 cm
- Weight: 2 – 4 kg (females usually slightly heavier than males)
- European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
- Size: 38 – 50 cm
- Weight: 1.5 – 2.5 kg (males usually heavier than females)
These three species contribute to the diverse wildlife found in England and showcase the impact of human introduction on ecosystems.
