Mountain Hare
About mountain hare hunting
Hare hunting with a running hound is one of Norway's finest hunting traditions. The dog picks up the hare's scent and drives it in a large circle, while the hunter positions themselves along known travel routes and waits for the hare to come back.
It is a social form of hunting that is often done in groups. The dog's baying carries through the forest, and the excitement builds as the sound approaches your post. The hare runs in wide circles and often returns to where it was flushed.
Hare hunting without a dog is done as still-hunting through typical hare terrain. Walking quietly through young forest stands and along bog edges can give you a chance at a sitting hare.
A 12-gauge shotgun with size 3–4 shot is standard. Small-caliber rifles are also used, especially when stalking.
Hunting Season
10 Sep – 28/29 Feb
Weight
2.5–5 kg
Distribution
The mountain hare is found throughout Norway, from the coast to the mountains. The densest populations are in Innlandet, Trøndelag and Northern Norway. Numbers fluctuate in cycles.
Terrain
Varied. The hare lives in coniferous forest, mountain birch woodland, on plateaus and in the cultivated landscape. It likes a mix of open and dense cover.
Identification
Brown summer coat, pure white winter coat. Large hind legs and long ears with black tips.
Hunting Tips
Hare hunting with hounds is best on light snow. Take a stand at known crossings and runs. The hare often follows the same route as last time.
Mountain Hare hunting by county
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