Snowshoe Hare

by Don Balke

Title

Snowshoe Hare

Artist

Don Balke

Medium

Painting - Watercolor On Cold Press Illustration Board

Description

Unlike their close relatives the rabbits, Snowshoe Hare bunnies are born covered with downy soft fur and with their eyes wide open. These adorable creatures of the forest venture from their birthplace at a very young age. In fact, about two weeks after birth, the young hares are foraging for food on the forest floor, although the mother still supplements their diet with her rich milk. During the warm months the young Snowshoe Hares romp through the forests of Connecticut in their "summer dress" -- the natural brown fur that camouflages the hares against the dull earthen colors. But with the coming of winter, the Snowshoe Hare's coat is transformed into a beautiful winter white to blend in with the drifting snow. Because these furry mammals change color with the seasons, they are often referred to as Varying Hares. The Varying Hare uses its large hair-covered feet to glide effortlessly across deep drifts without sinking into the snow. When the hare is startled it will drop down into the snow and remain motionless. Perfectly camouflaged against the snowy background, only its dark tipped ears and glistening black eyes peer out from the winter whiteness. Quivering slightly, the white hare waits patiently for suspected danger to pass and then gleefully continues its romp through the snow. The Snowshoe Hare is widely hunted, both by man and wild predators. As if to compensate for their short life spans, the hares are unusually prolific.

Please note the "Fine Art America" watermark will not appear on the painting or any print reproduction.

Artwork Copyright © 1983 Wind River Studios Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the Copyright. WRSH Stock Number XB08499

Uploaded

March 23rd, 2022

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