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Science & Nature • Mammals

Hare

Hares are mammals in the genus Lepus, belonging to the rabbit family Leporidae within the order Lagomorpha.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Hares are mammals in the genus Lepus, belonging to the rabbit family Leporidae within the order Lagomorpha. They are typically larger than rabbits, with long ears and powerful hind legs, and their young are born furred and with open eyes. Hares are native to Africa, Eurasia, and North America, and most species live above ground in shallow forms.

Taxonomy

Hares are the genus Lepus in the family Leporidae and the order Lagomorpha. This places them among the lagomorphs, alongside rabbits and pikas, but hares are distinct from rabbits in both anatomy and life history.

Physical characteristics

Hares are known for long ears, long hind legs, large hind feet, and a short tail. These features support speed and are associated with their ability to live in open environments.

Behaviour and reproduction

Hares are often solitary or live in pairs and rest in shallow surface nests called forms. Unlike rabbit young, leverets are born furred and with open eyes, allowing them to become mobile very soon after birth.

Distribution and habitat

Hare species are native to Africa, Eurasia, and North America. They are commonly associated with grasslands, open woodland, and other open habitats.

Key facts

  • Hares are true members of the genus Lepus, not rabbits, though both belong to the family Leporidae.
  • They are generally larger than rabbits and have long ears and long, powerful hind legs.
  • Hares usually nest in shallow ground depressions called forms rather than burrows.
  • Their young are typically born furred and with open eyes, and can move independently soon after birth.
  • Most species are fast runners and are adapted to open habitats.
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Canadian context

Several hare species occur in North America, which includes Canada; Canadian readers may encounter species such as the snowshoe hare in boreal and northern habitats.[1][4]

Frequently asked questions

What is a hare?
A hare is a mammal in the genus Lepus, in the rabbit family Leporidae, and is generally larger and longer-legged than a rabbit.
How are hares different from rabbits?
Hares are usually larger, have longer ears and legs, and give birth to furred, open-eyed young in above-ground forms rather than underground burrows.
Where do hares live?
Hares are native to Africa, Eurasia, and North America and are often found in open habitats such as grassland and open woodland.
What do hares eat?
Hares are herbivores, feeding on plant material.
Are hares social animals?
Hares are usually solitary or live in pairs rather than in large groups.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hare
    Supports: General description of hares, genus Lepus, nesting behaviour, young born furred and open-eyed, distribution.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/hare-mammal
    Supports: Genus Lepus, approximate number of species, relation to rabbits, general characteristics.
  3. New World Encyclopedia — https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Hare
    Supports: Family/order placement, physical characteristics, young born furred and eyes open.
  4. Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-and-animals/animals/vertebrate-zoology/hare
    Supports: General definition and habitat association with grassland/open woodland.