Scientific knowledge relevant to the conservation and management of the three hare species of the Iberian Peninsula: shortfalls and future challenges

Abstract

Alzaga, V., Torres, J., Villanúa, D., Cormenzana, A., Leránoz, I., Mateo-Moriones, A. (2013). Scientific knowledge relevant to the conservation and management of the three hare species of the Iberian Peninsula: shortfalls and future challenges. Ecosistemas 22(2):13-19. Doi.: 10.7818/ECOS.2013.22-2.03

The main advances on the knowledge of the three hare species inhabiting the Iberian Peninsula (Lepus granatensis, Lepus castroviejoi and Lepus europaeus, the first two endemic) were carried out in late XX^th century, mainly with studies on genetic, morphological and ecological aspects. During the 1990s and 2000s advances were especially related to genetic and evolutionary issues, environmental factors determining species’ distributions, sanitary status or spatial behaviour. Available studies about population dynamics are generally local, carried out with different methodologies and short data series, hampering joint data analysis and interpretation. This lack of information leads to insufficient technical background for adequate hare management.

Moreover, the three hare species are linked to agri-environments, so determining the management factors influencing hare populations is essential, especially due to the general decline of most wildlife species linked to these habitats. Will the scientific and technical sectors be able to advance in the knowledge of population dynamics and the effects of different practices in order to improve the management of Iberian hares?