Hares are mammals in the genus Lepus. They are herbivores that live alone or in pairs, nesting in shallow depressions called forms. Young hares, known as leverets, can fend for themselves shortly after birth. Most hare species are fast runners with long hind legs and large ears that help dissipate heat. Hares are native to Africa, Eurasia, and North America.
True hares belong to the Lepus genus, distinguishing them from rabbits, which are in the Leporidae family. Five species contain “hare” in their names but are not true hares, including the hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus) and several red rock hares (Pronolagus). Some Lepus species, known as jackrabbits, are also categorized as hares. Notably, the Belgian hare is a domesticated European rabbit selectively bred to resemble a hare.
