Further observations on a Callunetum intensively grazed by mountain hares (Lepus timidusL.)

Summary Heavy utilisation by mountain hares checked the growth of Calluna so that mean height was only 12 cm thirty years after the 0.2 ha area was burnt. Cover and biomass increased gradually over the thirteen years studied, from 59 to 85% and 300 to 580 g/m2 respectively. Differences in sward height were maintained, the greater utilisation of short heather being offset by greater growth. Compared to ruminant-grazed Calluneta, the hare-grazed sward had a distinctive, compact form, and biomass was great relative to cover and height because of the many shoots. Non-ericoid angiosperms had little cover.