Lepus arcticus

Arctic Hares are primarily solitary animals but are known to form large groups, sometimes consisting of hundreds of individuals, when feeding or during the winter months for warmth and protection from predators. They are exceptional diggers, using their powerful limbs to uncover buried vegetation in the snow. To escape predators, they rely on their remarkable speed and agility, capable of reaching speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph).

The breeding season for Arctic Hares begins in April or May, with females giving birth to one or two litters per year, each consisting of 1 to 8 leverets. The leverets are born fully furred and with their eyes open, ready to fend for themselves shortly after birth, which is crucial for survival in their predator-rich habitats.

Arctic Hares have a thick, white winter coat that provides both camouflage in snowy conditions and insulation against the cold, with some populations turning a blue-gray in summer to blend with the rocky terrain. They have short ears, black eyelashes that protect against the glare of the sun on snow, and powerful hind legs. Adults can weigh up to 7 kg (15 lbs) and measure up to 70 cm (27.5 inches) in length.

The Arctic Hare inhabits the tundra and rocky mountainous areas of the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, where vegetation is sparse. They are well adapted to these environments, with physical and behavioral traits that allow them to survive extreme cold and scarcity of food.

The Arctic Hare is not currently considered endangered, largely due to its wide distribution in remote areas with few human threats. However, like many Arctic species, it faces challenges from climate change, which is altering its habitat and could affect its food sources. The impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems is complex, and the Arctic Hare's long-term survival will depend on how these ecosystems adapt to changing conditions.