Snowshoe Hare

forest animals · winter survival · North America

Giant fuzzy feet. The snowshoe hare's huge back feet are covered in thick fur and act just like snowshoes, keeping the hare from sinking into deep snow while it bounds through winter forests.

Color-changing coat. Snowshoe hares turn white in winter to blend with snow and brown in summer to match the forest floor, which helps them hide from hungry predators.

Super speedy jumper. These hares can zoom across snowy ground at speeds up to 27 miles per hour, using their powerful hind legs to leap long distances with each bound.

Forest home. Snowshoe hares live in thick forests and thickets across Canada and the northern United States, where they nibble on bark, twigs, and clover.

Hunted by many. Lynx, owls, coyotes, and foxes all hunt snowshoe hares, which is why the hare's speed and camouflage are so important for staying alive.