17 Fun Hare Facts for Kids: Habitat, Diet & More (2024 Updated)
Although many people think that hares are just another name for rabbits, they are actually their own individual species of animal.
Hares are closely related to rabbits, but have many features that make them special and unique.
They are some of the fastest small mammals in the world, and can run at speeds of 45 miles per hour!
Continue reading to learn more interesting hare facts for kids.
What are the differences between hares and rabbits?
Many people may think that hares are the same as rabbits, but they actually have quite a few differences. Hares are larger than rabbits and have longer ears.
Hares will give birth to their babies in open areas while rabbits give birth in burrows that are hidden.
Because they are born with less protection, hares are fully covered in fur and have their eyes wide open when they are born.
Hares are wild animals, while people will keep rabbits as house pets.
Where do hares live?
Hares can found in Africa, Eurasia, North America, and some parts of Japan. They like to live in areas that have plenty of trees, bushes, and other vegetation that can hide them.
They also like to have wide open space to run around.
What do hares like to eat?
Hares are herbivores, which means that they only eat plants. Their favorite food is grass, but they will also eat flowers, seeds, vegetables, and fruits.
Do any predators go after hares?
Hares are big and extremely fast, so they are not the first food that many predators choose. Some animals that do hunt hares are owls, hawks, and coyotes.
Humans will also hunt them sometimes for food or sport.
Are hares really tricky like they are in the stories?
In stories like ‘The Tortoise and the Hare’, the hare is a trickster and ends up losing the race because he is too confident in his skills. In real life, hares are known to be calm and fairly shy.
Quick Hare Facts for Kids
Hares belong to the same animal family as rabbits but are a different species.
Hares are larger than rabbits and have longer ears.
They can run up to 45 miles per hour.
Hares can found in Africa, Eurasia, North America, and some parts of Japan.
Hares are herbivores (meaning they only eat plants) and their favorite food is grass.
Although many people may confuse them with rabbits, hare species are unique and have special traits and behaviors.
They can be found all over the world and are known as calm and sweet animals. Hares are in many stories and movies, and are a favorite animal of many a child!
