Habitat Components of Clear-Cut Areas for Snowshoe Hares in Michigan

Abstract

The relationships between snowshoe hare (L. americanus) activity and habitat and weather variables were quantified on diverse, partially clear-cut areas in the northern lower peninsula of Michigan [USA] during Jan.-March 1976. Distance from lowland coniferous-hardwood types and habitat interspersion were the 2 most important factors determining hare activity. Habitat interspersion may be important in providing a diversity of food and cover, provided lowland types were nearby. Red maple (Acer rubrum) and speckled alder (Alnus rugosa) were the most intensively browsed species in lowland habitats. Browse selection shifted to aspen (Populus spp.) and pine (Pinus spp.) in upland habitats and clear-cuttings. Extensive surveys on two 23 km2 areas supported the conclusions made from the intensive study. Cuttings managed for hares should be small or shaped so that canopy cover is within 200-400 m of all parts of the cutting.