Long‐term patterns in Iberian hare population dynamics in a protected area (Doñana National Park) in the southwestern Iberian Peninsula: Effects of weather conditions and plant cover

A long-term decline in the Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) population was observed in Doñana National Park between 1995 and 2012. The study, conducted using spotlighting surveys in marshland and ecotone habitats, revealed that hare abundance varied significantly with weather conditions and plant cover. Early flooding in October, which partially submerged the marsh, positively correlated with hare abundance in both habitats, while dense grass and graminoid growth reduced hare numbers. These findings highlight the sensitivity of this endemic species to environmental changes, underscoring the need for targeted conservation strategies in protected areas.

CARRO, F., & SORIGUER, R. C. (2017). Long‐term patterns in Iberian hare population dynamics in a protected area (Doñana National Park) in the southwestern Iberian Peninsula: Effects of weather conditions and plant cover. Integrative Zoology, 12(1), 49–60. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/1749-4877.12212