Lepus americanus ssp. klamathensis

Oregon snowshoe hare

Family: Leporidae · Class: Mammalia · Order: Lagomorpha

Conservation status: G5T3T4Q S2

The Oregon snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus ssp. klamathensis) is a subspecies of snowshoe hare distinguished by its seasonal coat color changes and distinctive large hind feet. Adults measure 362 to 520 mm (14.3 to 20.5 inches) in total length, with hind feet ranging from 117 to 147 mm (4.6 to 5.8 inches) in length. Body weight typically ranges from 1.3 to 1.8 kg (2.9 to 4.0 pounds). The species exhibits dramatic seasonal pelage changes: summer coats are brown to russet with black-tipped guard hairs, while winter coats are predominantly white except for black ear tips. The oversized hind feet, which give the species its common name, are heavily furred and function as natural snowshoes for movement across snow. In California, the Oregon snowshoe hare occurs only in the extreme northeastern portion of the state, primarily in Modoc and northern Lassen counties. The subspecies' range extends northward into Oregon and eastward into Nevada. This represents the southernmost extent of snowshoe hare distribution on the Pacific Coast. Historical records indicate a more extensive California range, but current populations are restricted to high-elevation areas of the Warner Mountains and adjacent ranges. The subspecies inhabits montane coniferous forests and adjacent riparian areas at elevations between 1,520 and 2,440 meters (5,000 to 8,000 feet). Preferred habitat consists of dense stands of lodgepole pine, white fir, and aspen with thick understory vegetation providing cover from predators. During winter months, individuals utilize areas with sufficient snow depth to access elevated browse and maintain runway systems beneath snow cover. Oregon snowshoe hares are primarily crepuscular, most active during dawn and dusk periods. The diet consists of herbaceous plants, bark, and twigs, with seasonal variation in food sources. Summer diet includes grasses, forbs, and leaves of shrubs and trees, while winter feeding focuses on bark and twigs of aspen, willow, and coniferous species. Breeding occurs from March through August, with females producing one to four litters annually. Gestation lasts approximately 36 days, with litter sizes ranging from one to seven young, though typically two to four. Leverets are born fully furred with open eyes and are capable of independent movement within hours of birth. The Oregon snowshoe hare holds a state rank of S2 in California, indicating it is imperiled due to rarity and vulnerability to extirpation. The subspecies faces threats from habitat loss due to logging, fire suppression altering forest structure, climate change affecting snow cover duration, and recreational activities in sensitive areas. Population monitoring is limited, but available data suggest declining numbers in California. The subspecies' restricted range and specific habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining suitable forest structure and monitoring population trends in remaining habitat areas.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.