Mountain Hare Day

In the heart of Scotland, a new tradition has taken root, one that celebrates the resilience and charm of a unique creature native to the region. This tradition is none other than National Mountain Hare Day, observed annually on March 1st. This day is not just a celebration, but also a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and the role each one of us plays in preserving our natural heritage. The mountain hare, a symbol of the wild and untamed beauty of the Scottish highlands, now has a day dedicated to its protection and conservation.

History of National Mountain Hare Day

National Mountain Hare Day was born out of a need to protect the mountain hare, a species that had been under threat due to unregulated hunting. The day coincides with the enforcement of new regulations that make it illegal to intentionally kill, injure, or take mountain hares without a license. These regulations were passed in 2021 after persistent lobbying by Scottish Green MSP Alison Johnstone and various wildlife conservation organizations.

The journey to this day was not an easy one. It was a result of years of campaigning to end the indiscriminate mass slaughter of mountain hares on Scotland’s grouse moors. The new protections came as a direct result of an amendment to wildlife laws, which forced the Government to act after years of delay. The overwhelming public support for action ensured that Parliament supported this change, marking a significant victory for wildlife conservation efforts in Scotland.

The mountain hare, known for its stunning winter white coat, is an integral part of Scotland’s biodiversity. Its decline in numbers due to hunting and habitat loss was a cause for concern among environmentalists and nature lovers alike. The establishment of National Mountain Hare Day is a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of legal protections in conserving wildlife.

How to Celebrate National Mountain Hare Day

Celebrating National Mountain Hare Day is all about raising awareness and taking action to protect these beautiful creatures and their habitat. Here are some ways you can participate:

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn more about mountain hares, their importance to the ecosystem, and the threats they face. Share this knowledge with your friends, family, and social media followers. There are numerous online resources and books available that provide in-depth information about these fascinating creatures.
2. Support Wildlife Conservation Organizations: Organizations like OneKind played a crucial role in establishing protections for mountain hares. Consider donating to such organizations or getting involved in their work. Your support can help fund research, conservation projects, and advocacy efforts.
3. Advocate for Wildlife Protections: Reach out to your local representatives and urge them to support legislation that protects wildlife and their habitats. Your voice can make a difference in shaping policies that impact wildlife conservation.
4. Enjoy Nature Responsibly: If you’re in Scotland, take a trip to the countryside to appreciate the natural habitat of the mountain hare. Remember to respect all wildlife and leave no trace. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a mountain hare in its natural habitat.
5. Spread the Word: Use your social media platforms to raise awareness about National Mountain Hare Day. While there isn’t an official hashtag yet, creating one could be a fun way to get more people involved.

National Mountain Hare Day is more than just a day; it’s a movement towards a more conscious and respectful relationship with our natural world. It’s a call to action for all of us to play our part in preserving the biodiversity of our planet. As we celebrate this day, let’s remember that every creature, no matter how small, plays a vital role in our ecosystem. The mountain hare is not just a symbol of the Scottish highlands, but also a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and our responsibility to protect it.

The story of the mountain hare is one of resilience and survival. Despite the challenges they faced, these creatures have endured, thanks to their adaptability and the efforts of those committed to their protection. National Mountain Hare Day is a celebration of this resilience, a tribute to the beauty of nature, and a reminder of our duty to protect it.