Mammals · Lagomorpha · Leporidae

Iberian Hare

Lepus granatensis

Least Concern

The species is abundant and widely distributed; it faces no significant short-term risk. See full glossary

The Iberian hare is a lagomorph mammal endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. This species tends to be confused with rabbits. It is medium-sized: it measures between 44 and 50 cm and has elongated claws and dense fur covering its toes. It is a herbivorous and nocturnal species. A female may give birth to one or two leverets in her first litter. It can adapt to any kind of country. Its ears are longer than a rabbit's and can measure from 9.3 to 10.5 cm. It normally weighs from 1,500 to 2,600 g. It forms part of the diet of many predators, among them above all humans, wolves and foxes.

Weight

1.7 kg – 2.6 kg

Size

44 cm – 50 cm

Lifespan

5 years

Diet

Herbivore

Feeds mainly on plants.

Activity

Nocturnal

Active mainly at night.

Social structure

Solitary

Lives and hunts alone, joining others only to breed.

Sighting difficulty

Easy

DesertGrasslandHerbivore Nocturnal Solitary Desert Grassland Mammal

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Fun facts

GeneralEndemic to Iberia; a key prey of the Iberian lynx and the Spanish imperial eagle.
Unlike the rabbit, its young are born furred, with their eyes open and able to move from the first day, because they have no burrow to protect them.
It can breed practically all year round in the south of the peninsula, taking advantage of the mild winters.

Life cycle & biology

Skeleton type: Vertebrate - internal bony skeleton (mammal)
Habitat & environment: Farmland, cereal fields, Mediterranean scrub and dunes
Sexual maturity: 7 months
Gestation / incubation: 42 days
Litter / clutch size: 2

Sources consulted: https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lepus_granatensis