lepojykä

Lepojykä (*Lepus timidus*) is a small to medium-sized hare native to the northern regions of Eurasia and North America. Often referred to as the Arctic hare or mountain hare, it is well-adapted to cold climates and is commonly found in tundra, taiga, and mountainous areas. This species exhibits seasonal variations in fur color, known as seasonal dimorphism, which helps it blend into its snowy or forested surroundings.

The lepojykä has a compact body, short ears, and powerful hind legs, which enable it to leap quickly when threatened. Its diet consists primarily of grasses, shrubs, and bark, though it may also consume lichens and fungi in winter. Unlike rabbits, lepojykä are born fully furred and with open eyes, allowing them to move shortly after birth.

This species plays a key role in its ecosystem as both prey and predator. It is hunted by predators such as foxes, wolves, and birds of prey, while its grazing habits influence vegetation distribution. The lepojykä’s population density fluctuates due to factors like food availability, weather conditions, and predation pressure.

Conservation status varies by region, but the species is generally considered stable in most of its range. However, habitat loss and climate change pose potential threats in some areas. Research on lepojykä contributes to broader understanding of Arctic and boreal ecosystems, as well as the impacts of environmental changes on wildlife.

The lepojykä is also of cultural significance in Indigenous communities, where it has been a traditional food source and symbol in folklore. Its adaptability and ecological importance make it a notable species in northern wildlife studies.