Quick Answer
Snow accumulation reveals hare tracks, but for a limited time. Deep or prolonged snow cover will eventually conceal them.
Understanding Snowshoe Hare Tracks in Winter
Snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) are an important game species in northern forests, and tracking them in winter is crucial for successful hunting. Beagles, with their keen sense of smell, can detect hare tracks under the snow, but only for a short period.
Revealing Tracks in Fresh Snow
In areas with light to moderate snowfall (less than 6 inches), recent hare tracks can be easily spotted due to the compacted snow and the hare’s distinctive stride. Look for tracks with a length of 7-10 inches and a stride of 24-30 inches, indicating the hare’s speed and agility. The tracks should be visible for a short distance, about 20-30 feet, before being covered by subsequent snowfall.
Challenges with Deep Snow
However, in areas with heavy snowfall (over 12 inches) or prolonged snow cover, hare tracks become increasingly difficult to detect. Beagles may follow the scent of the hare, but the tracks themselves will be obscured by the deep snow. In such cases, hunters must rely on other signs, such as hare scat, digging marks, or the presence of snowshoe hare fur, to locate their quarry.
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