The Arctic hare is a species of hare that is found in the cold regions of Canada, Greenland, and the Arctic tundra. They are known for their long ears, white fur, and excellent adaptation to survive the winter conditions in these regions. What is surprising about the Arctic hare is their unique diet that allows them to thrive in environments with scarce vegetation.

The Arctic hare’s diet consists mainly of woody plants, lichen, and mosses. In the winter months, when the ground is covered in snow, they rely on woody plants such as willow and birch to sustain themselves. They can even eat the bark of these trees, which is a good source of nutrients and water. This allows them to survive the harsh winters when the ground is covered in snow, and there is no vegetation to be found.

During the summer months, the Arctic hare’s diet shifts to a more herbivorous one. They can feed on a variety of grasses and wildflowers, which grow during the short summer months in the Arctic tundra. During this time, they can eat as much as 20% of their body weight in vegetation each day to build up their fat reserves in preparation for the winter months.

In addition to their herbivorous diet, the Arctic hare has also been observed cannibalizing other hares. This behavior is thought to be a result of the scarcity of food in the Arctic tundra. In times of food shortage, some Arctic hares may turn to eating the young of other hares or even their own kind to survive.

What is fascinating about the Arctic hare’s diet is their ability to adapt to the harsh conditions of the Arctic tundra. In an environment where food is scarce, the Arctic hare has evolved to eat a variety of plant materials and can even resort to cannibalism to survive. Their unique diet allows them to thrive in an environment that would be inhospitable to many other species.

In conclusion, the Arctic hare is a remarkable animal that has adapted to survive in one of the most unforgiving environments on Earth. Their diet is a testament to their ability to adapt and thrive in an environment with minimal resources. The Arctic hare continues to fascinate scientists and wildlife enthusiasts alike and serves as a reminder of the resilience of nature’s creations.