The U.K. government has implemented a ban on hunting brown hares during their breeding season, spanning February to October. This move aims to protect pregnant or nursing females and their young leverets, addressing a critical animal welfare concern. Brown hare populations in England and Wales have declined by over 80% in the last century, making this conservation effort vital. The ban prohibits shooting hares during these months to prevent the annual killing of thousands of breeding females and vulnerable young, as highlighted by Minister Mary Creagh. She emphasized the species' iconic status and the moral imperative to stop the decline, stating it's 'simply wrong' to shoot hares during breeding season.

Data from the Hare Preservation Trust indicates the population drop, though the exact causes remain unclear. While some view hare hunting as population control, the decline points to pressures from the U.K.'s intensified agricultural industry. Former environment secretary George Eustice supported the ban, noting the importance of protecting species during breeding seasons and criticizing past failures to implement similar protections. The measure is seen as a crucial step for biodiversity, as brown hares play roles in grazing and the food chain.

This policy shift reflects growing recognition of the need for modern conservation measures, though it faces challenges from traditional hunting practices and unclear underlying population drivers.