Field guide
Brown hare
Larger and faster than rabbits, brown hares are found on open farmland and tussock country across both islands. They are less numerous than rabbits but damage crops and young trees.
Lepus europaeus
Where you’ll find them
Open country, usually solitary. Hares rely on speed and sit tight until closely approached.
Dogs and 1080
Ask the landowner what toxins are in use before bringing a dog onto open farmland.
Check 1080 operationsBefore you go
Seasons, permits, firearms rules and access conditions differ by region and by land status, and they change. We don’t publish them — check with the authority for the land you’re on: DOC for public conservation land, your regional council for pest rules, and the landowner for private land.