The Arctic hare survives with shortened ears and limbs, a small nose, fat that makes up close to 20% of its body, and a thick coat of fur. It usually digs holes in the ground or under the snow to keep warm and to sleep.
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Arctic hare | |
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Genus: | Lepus |
Species: | L. arcticus |
Binomial name | |
Lepus arcticus Ross, 1819 |
- Do arctic hares have long ears?
- Why do arctic hares have black tipped ears?
- How do arctic hare survive?
- What is special about arctic hares?
Do arctic hares have long ears?
Arctic Hare Appearance and Behavior
Hares typically have longer ears and longer hind feet than rabbits. The tail of a hare is longer as well. In the case of the arctic hare, its ears are actually shorter than other types of hares, which helps it to conserve heat in the cold climate in which it lives.
Why do arctic hares have black tipped ears?
For the Arctic Hare, Lepus arcticus is the scientific name. They have a shortened ear with a black tip. These shortened ears help the Arctic Hare reduce heat loss from the body surface.
How do arctic hare survive?
The Arctic hare is a species of hare that is adapted to icy biomes, particularly the Arctic tundra. It survives the harsh climate thanks to its shortened limbs and ears, tiny nose, a thick coat, a body that is 20% fat, and its ability to dig holes beneath the snow to escape the cold wind.
What is special about arctic hares?
Hares are a bit larger than rabbits, and they typically have taller hind legs and longer ears. Like other hares and rabbits, arctic hares are fast and can bound at speeds of up to 40 miles an hour. In winter, they sport a brilliant white coat that provides excellent camouflage in the land of ice and snow.