Day and night selection of different habitats by the released brown hares (Lepus europaeus Pallas)

The results of study assessing the available habitat type selection during the day and night time by the released brown hares (Lepus europaeus Pallas) are presented. Studies were carried out over the four−year period November 2005−November 2009 inclusive, in central Poland. The material for study comprised brown hares raised in open−field enclosures, and then released in the study area. Radio−tracking was used to follow 60 individuals out of the total of 78 released ones in batches of 30, 30 and 18 in three consecutive years. Different individuals were located with the use of a traditional triangulation method. Use of habitat types by released hares during the day was significantly different at the spring−summer vs. autumn−winter home ranges. The similar results were found also for the nighttime. Flood land area was found to be the most preferred habitat type of studied hares, probably because of the food diversity and shelter places available

Population parameters of brown hare (Lepus europaeus L.) in regions of the species highest density in Poland

The paper presents the selected indicators of hare populations in Poland. The material consisted of 528 hares acquired during traditional hunts. For each hunted hare we specified its weight, sex and age. All individuals were classified into two age groups: the first comprised juveniles (up to 12 months of age), while the other – adults (over 12 months). The ratio of young individuals in relation adults varies a lot (26−56%). The males to females ratio was approximately 1:1 with a slight advantage in favor of females. Reproductive rate was between 0.36 and 1.26, while reproductive success – 0.7−2.7. Average weight of hunted hares ranged between 3.42 and 4.32 kg. No significant differences in body weight were noticed within gender groups (Z=1.298, p>0.05, Mann−Whitney U test). However, they were found within the age groups (Z=–9.657, p <0.05, Mann−Whitney U test)