Quick answer
A hare can reach about 70 km/h (43 mph) in short bursts. Terrain, motivation, and body condition (3–5 kg (7–11 lb)) all change the number you would measure.
Key takeaway
A hare can reach about 70 km/h (43 mph) in short bursts. Terrain, motivation, and body condition (3–5 kg (7–11 lb)) all change the number you would measure.
Hare top speed
Published estimates put hare speed near 70 km/h (43 mph). These are usually peak sprint figures, not cruising speeds held for long distances across Open farmland, grassland, meadows.
Sprint versus endurance
Most animals accelerate hard for capture or escape, then recover. Open ground favours higher recorded speeds; dense cover favours agility over raw pace.
Anatomy behind hare speed
Limb proportions, muscle fibre mix, and mass (3–5 kg (7–11 lb)) shape acceleration and top end. Heavier individuals may hit hard but tire sooner.
Reading speed claims
Methods differ (radar, filming, anecdote). Prefer ranges from recent field studies over viral single numbers, and never try to outrun wildlife.
Range and conservation
The brown hare is native to Europe and western Asia and has been introduced to other regions, including parts of the Americas and Australia. It is listed as Least Concern globally, but in the United Kingdom numbers have fallen sharply since the early 20th century due to changes in farming, loss of varied habitat, and illegal hare coursing, making it a priority species for conservation.
Built for speed
The brown hare relies on speed and stamina rather than burrows to escape danger. Its long, muscular hind legs let it reach around 70 km/h and twist sharply at full pace, and its huge ears give excellent hearing and help shed heat. When a predator is near, a hare often freezes flat against the ground, trusting its camouflage before exploding into a sprint.
Sources
Hare FAQs
How fast is a hare?
A hare can reach about 70 km/h (43 mph) in short bursts. Terrain, motivation, and body condition (3–5 kg (7–11 lb)) all change the number you would measure.
What is the scientific name of the hare?
Lepus europaeus — used in research and conservation listings for hares.
What do hares eat?
Hares eat grasses, herbs, crops and bark, with seasonal and regional variation in Open farmland, grassland, meadows.
Where do hares live?
They are associated with Open farmland, grassland, meadows. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of hares?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.