Species profile
About this species
The Arctic Hare is a large hare species adapted to the extreme cold of Arctic environments, found across northern Canada & Greenland. It has thick white fur in winter that provides excellent camouflage against snow, transitioning to a grey-brown coat in summer in some populations. Arctic Hares are known for their remarkable ability to survive harsh tundra conditions, often gathering in large groups for warmth & protection.
Arctic Hares inhabit open tundra, rocky slopes, & coastal areas across the high Arctic, including northern Canada, Greenland & surrounding Arctic islands. They favour areas with low-growing shrubs, mosses & lichens, often seeking out windswept ridges where snow is thinner & vegetation is more accessible during winter.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Arctic Hare with us in Norway.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Alison Jenkins helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Winter & early spring offer the most striking photography opportunities when the hare's coat is fully white against snowy landscapes. The summer months in the high Arctic provide extended daylight hours, including the midnight sun, giving photographers exceptional flexibility. Late afternoon light during the short winter days produces warm tones that contrast beautifully with the white fur & snow.
Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture close-up detail without disturbing the animal, as Arctic Hares are highly alert & will flee if approached too closely. Expose carefully for the bright white winter coat by dialling in positive exposure compensation of +1 to +2 stops to avoid underexposure against snow backgrounds. Shoot during the golden hours of early morning & late afternoon when the low Arctic sun casts warm directional light that adds texture & depth to the animal's fur.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Arctic Hare
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.