Snowshoe Hare models its spring and winter line

As snow begins to fall in New Brunswick, Canada, nature helps animals cleverly adapt, using camouflage when they prefer not to be seen. No, you won't see beavers in the aisles of the local army-navy store buying green jackets along with their Swiss Army knives and Sterno. Animals like the Snowshoe Hare and the Short-tailed Weasel (Ermine) have the ability to change the color of their coats to match their background environment.

Camo is the best way for the hare to stay out of sight of predators. During late spring to early fall, the Snowshoe Hare has a rich cinnamon-brown color and is able to blend into its groundcover background. As the days shorten, the hares gradually molt,  growing new, long white hairs and shedding the old brown ones. Come spring, they molt again, revealing brown hairs underneath.