While systematically casting pointing dogs across the dry alfalfa fields for Spotted Tinamou, international hunters frequently encounter the explosive flush of the European Hare, providing a massive, fast-moving, and highly prized "bonus" target to the Argentine upland experience.
The Giant of the Alfalfa
Introduced to Argentina in the late 19th century, the European Hare (*Lepus europaeus*), known locally as the *Liebre*, has thrived across the vast agricultural basins of the Humid Pampa. Unlike the small cottontail rabbits found in North America, the European Hare is a structural giant, often weighing between 7 and 10 pounds, with massive, powerful hind legs built for blistering, sustained speed. They inhabit the exact same winter pastures as the perdiz. Because they rely heavily on camouflage, they will "hold tight" in the deep grass, remaining completely motionless until the hunter or the pointing dog is within five yards. When they finally break cover, they explode forward, instantly accelerating to speeds exceeding 35 mph.
| Target Profile | European Hare (Liebre) |
|---|---|
| Physical Size | Massive; 7 to 10 lbs; exceptionally long ears with black tips. |
| Escape Tactic | Holds tight in cover, then sprints in a blistering straight line. |
| Encounter Window | Midday upland walks; frequent in dense alfalfa and natural grass. |
| Culinary Value | Exceptional. The dark, rich meat is heavily utilized by lodge chefs. |
The Rules of Engagement
Harvesting a hare during a perdiz walk requires excellent muzzle discipline and absolute adherence to the dog handler's commands. Because pointing dogs (like German Shorthairs) are trained to point birds, the sudden sprint of a 10-pound hare will often trigger a young or highly driven dog to break its point and chase the animal. **You must never shoot at a hare if the dog is actively chasing it.** Firing low to the ground at a moving target while a dog is in pursuit is a lethal safety violation. You must wait for the *perdicero* (handler) to command the dog to "Whoa" or sit. Only when the dog is completely stationary, and the hare is safely isolated in the distance, can you mount your shotgun, track the running target, and execute the shot.
Tactical Field Note: European Hares are large, heavily muscled animals. A light 28-gauge loaded with #8 dove shot will often wound them rather than kill them cleanly. If you are specifically hunting a pasture known for high hare populations, instruct your guide to load your shotgun with heavier #6 lead shot to ensure sufficient kinetic penetration.
Internal Connections
- Read the master guide to the primary target in Perdiz Hunting in Argentina: The Elite Upland Guide.
- Understand the safety line formations via Safety Formations for Upland Perdiz Walking in Argentina.
- Learn how the dogs work in Pointing Dogs in Argentina: Field Dynamics.