Gauteng Smallholder Dec 2016 / Jan 2017 | Page 33

ON THE PLOT Know your wildlife: rabbits vs hares I f it hops like a bunny, has long bunny-ears and a bushy bunny tail it must be a bunny, right? Not necessarily. It could be a hare. You may think you know, but chances are you're actually unclear as to the difference between a rabbit and a hare. Interestingly, even though many think that these creatures look the same, in fact they belong to absolutely different species. It may sound improbable but the rabbit and the hare have more differences than similarities: they are born differently, they behaviour and style of life are totally different and they even prefer different food. The difference between rabbits and hares appears at the moment they are born. kitten is in the nest, the mother is careful enough to wrap it with more hair and leaves to keep the young one warm and comfortable. Hares, however, are born fully furred, able to see and capable of independent movement. Hares are bigger than rabbits. They are swifter than rabbits, too. The hares have longer Continued on page 33 BEEKEEPING From page 30 Scrub hare First of all, baby rabbits are called kittens, while baby hares are called leverets. Rabbits are born completely helpless, naked and blind. The mother gives birth to the young ones in a nest that has been carefully constructed with grass, tender stems and tree bark. Over this soft cushion, the mother spreads a layer of fur that she takes from her skin. Once the beekeeper, therefore, is to provide a stand for the hive at least 200mm off the ground. This stops toads and mice and prevents flooding of the entrances. Throw well burnt coal ash around and under the stand and some good handfuls of rock salt to take care of the ants. A pellet gun takes care of the birds! Next on the list is the weeds that grow around the hive and must be dealt with in the early summer months. A regular visit to the apiary with a sprayer and weed killer sorts this problem out. Well managed strong swarms 31 www.sasmallholder.co.za will reward the beekeeper with at least 25 kg of honey over the season ~ a worthwhile crop for all the hard work. Article by Peter Clark, chairman, Eastern Highveld Beekeeper’s Association, tel 011 362-2904 and secretary Mike Alter tel 011 965-6040