Spring Birth Season: Low Density of Hares in Brandenburg

In Brandenburg, the density of field hares is notably low compared to other regions in Germany. Recent estimates indicate that around 60,000 field hares inhabit the state as of spring 2024, translating to a mere six hares per square kilometer. This figure is significantly below the national average, which reported approximately 19 hares per square kilometer during the same period.

The disparities in hare populations across Germany are striking. For instance, the northwestern lowlands exhibit the highest density, with an average of 28 hares per square kilometer, followed by the southwestern mountainous regions, which have about 23 hares per square kilometer. In contrast, the northeastern lowlands, which include Brandenburg, show a much lower average of just seven hares per square kilometer.

While the overall hare population in Brandenburg has seen a slight increase over the past 25 years, the last five years have shown little change. Experts note that hare densities remain stable but are still considered low.

Field hares can be found throughout Brandenburg, with higher concentrations in the northern parts compared to the southern regions. The land districts of Barnim, Havelland, Märkisch-Oderland, and Uckermark are home to the largest populations, likely due to the favorable agricultural conditions that these fertile areas provide.

In urban areas like Berlin, field hares can be spotted in various environments, including parks, former industrial sites, and green spaces. Although they are adapting to city life, they face significant threats from human activities, primarily due to habitat loss linked to agricultural practices. Increasing biodiversity on farms could be a crucial step in providing better habitats for these animals.

The year 2024 has been particularly challenging for young hares, as wetter conditions pose serious risks. The moisture can lead to the fur of newborn hares becoming matted, compromising their insulation and leading to potential hypothermia or death from exposure.

The counting of field hares is conducted by hunters as part of a wildlife monitoring program, involving nighttime surveys across 426 designated areas where hares are observed under controlled lighting conditions.