Lievre

Lievre is the French term for a hare, a small to medium-sized mammal belonging to the family Leporidae. Hares are known for their long legs, large ears, and swift running capabilities, which help them evade predators in open habitats. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, herbs, and other vegetation.

Hares are distinguishable from rabbits, their close relatives, by their larger size, longer limbs, and the tendancy to live solitarily or in pairs rather than in complex burrow systems. Unlike rabbits, hares do not dig extensive underground warrens but instead create simple nests called forms, where they rest and reproduce. They are generally more mobile and have a greater capacity for speed, capable of reaching speeds up to 70 km/h (43 mph).

Many species of hares are distributed across Europe, North America, Asia, and North Africa. Common species include the European hare (Lepus europaeus), the Arctic hare (Lepus arcticus), and the jackrabbit, a group of North American species. Hares are typically active during dawn and dusk, exhibiting crepuscular behavior, and are adapted to a variety of habitats, including grasslands, deserts, and woodlands.

Reproductive capacity is high among hares, with females capable of producing several litters per year, each comprising multiple leverets (young hares). Their populations are influenced by seasonal changes, availability of food, and predation.

Hares hold ecological significance in their ecosystems as prey for predators such as foxes, hawks, and owls. They also play a role in the dispersal of plant seeds through their grazing and movement patterns. Their adaptability and swift movements make them a prominent feature in many temperate and arid landscapes.