Measuring dung accumulation ‘will help measure hare populations’

Measuring accumulation of dung during the winter is one of the best ways to estimate mountain hare populations, according to a new study.

The Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) report published two recommendations on the most effective methods to work out the animals’ numbers in upland areas, at local and national levels.

It found the first to be “systematically” counting hares at night using a spotlight, while the second was measuring dung accumulation over four to six months during the winter.

Welcoming publication of the research, Eileen Stuart, SNH’S head of policy and advice, said: “Many people enjoy seeing mountain hares in the Scottish hills.

“We hope that the counting methods recommended in the report will be adopted by those who manage land around Scotland, and the information made available to us.

“This will give us a better picture of mountain hare numbers, both regionally and nationally and support local decisions about how to maintain and conserve our native hare population.”

Informal reports in the media of widespread culling of hares led to interest in whether this practice could be linked to declines in mountain hare numbers in some areas.

The methods which have been recommended in the report will provide a way to monitor populations and changes in numbers, both of which are aimed at helping in the conservation of the species.

Susandavies,directorofconservation for Scottish Wildlife Trust, said: “This report makes it clear that relatively little is known about mountain hare numbers or how to manage them sustainably.

“Despite this lack of information, hares continue to be subjected to unregulated culls, and declines have been reported in local populations.”

Ms Davies added: “Now that there is broad agreement on the most appropriate method of monitoring mountain hare numbers it is vital that a robust national survey is set up in time for counts to take place this autumn. “