For as long as I can remember, I've found hares to be magnificent creatures. Their agility, grace, and silent beauty have always been fascinating to me. I firmly believe that these animals deserve a fair chance at life, just as any other creature does, yet, throughout history, they have been relentlessly persecuted by humans.

Hare coursing, a practice where dogs are used to chase hares, continues to threaten the existence of these beautiful animals, particularly during the spring when the vulnerable leverets (young hares) are born. This is a critical time when mother hares are nurturing their offspring, and any disturbance could lead to the death of these young hares.

During spring, leverets hide quietly in their nests while the mothers graze to gather nourishment for their young. Unfortunately, when hare coursing takes place, it disrupts this natural behavior, often separating mothers and leverets, leading to increased mortality among the young and a decline in the overall population. Hares have already experienced significant decline due to various human activities, and we must act to protect them.

According to research from the Mammal Society, the hare population in the UK has declined by over 80% over the last century, a figure that should alarm us all. If we do not take action now, we risk losing yet another precious part of our natural heritage.

The solution is clear: implement a law to ban hare coursing entirely during the spring months, giving leverets a chance to grow and mature without fear. Such a law can make a significant difference in ensuring that future generations can also marvel at these wonderful animals in the wild, not just in history books.

By signing this petition, you are taking a stand to protect hares and their offspring during this critical period. Please join me in urging lawmakers to act swiftly to protect these creatures before it's too late. Every signature counts—let's make a difference together.