The recent increase in snowshoe hare sightings on Prince Edward Island (PEI) following the post-tropical storm Fiona has sparked curiosity among locals. While it's impossible to confirm a population boom without formal tracking data, a provincial wildlife biologist, Garry Gregory, suggests that the storm's aftermath has created ideal conditions for these hares to thrive. The dense, tangled debris left in forests and woodlots has provided cover and escape routes, allowing more hares to survive and potentially increase their numbers. This phenomenon is particularly intriguing given the native status of snowshoe hares on PEI, as they are not actually rabbits, which are not native to the province. The storm's impact on the landscape has also led to the growth of early successional plants, providing more food for the hares during the winter months. This new growth benefits not only the hares but also other wildlife, such as songbirds and game birds, which rely on this type of vegetation. However, the increased hare population may have some Islanders concerned about potential conflicts with pets and garden vegetables. Despite these concerns, Gregory advises against feeding the hares, as they are generally wary of human interaction and have ample food sources in the summer. The rise in sightings may also be attributed to increased public awareness of ticks and Lyme disease, although the tick species commonly found on hares are not the ones of concern for Lyme disease transmission. Overall, the story of the snowshoe hares on PEI following Fiona is a fascinating example of how natural disasters can create unique ecological dynamics and highlight the importance of understanding the specific characteristics of local wildlife.
