Hares

Lore & Background

In the world of Redwall, hares occupy a unique niche as the backbone of the Long Patrol, a disciplined military force serving under the Badger Lord or Badger Lady of Salamandastron. Unlike rabbits, who are wild Freefolk living in forest warrens, hares are organized, loyal soldiers who live and fight together in large communal regiments. They are respected by other species for their bravery, speed, and unwavering loyalty to their commander. Hares answer directly to the Badger Lord or Badger Lady, who rules Salamandastron and leads them in battle. When vermin bands such as rats or stoats threaten the natural order, the Long Patrol mobilizes as a unified force, not as solitary individuals. Hare camps and Salamandastron itself serve as their primary homes, offering communal living and military structure.

In Their Own Story

The moon hung low over the Mossflower forest, casting silver light through the dense canopy. A hare crouched atop a mossy ridge, ears twitching at every snapping twig below. He was not hunting for food tonight; he was watching for trouble. Far in the distance, the silhouette of Redwall Abbey stood silent and sturdy against the night sky. The hare narrowed his eyes, spotting the glint of steel among the shadows near the wall. With a powerful spring that sent leaves skittering down the slope, he vanished into the undergrowth to warn the Abbey before dawn broke.

Reader's Guide

The Hares of Mossflower are a proud and independent species distinct from the rabbits found in other lands. While they do not maintain a single centralized kingdom like the Abbey or Salamandastron, hare warrens often form loose alliances with the good creatures of the forest. Their primary goal is the protection of their territory and the preservation of peace within Mossflower Island. When vermin bands threaten the land, hares frequently join the defense forces, utilizing their natural speed and strength to outmaneuver enemies. They are highly valued as scouts due to their keen senses and agility. In times of war, hare warriors can be seen leading charges or securing flanks alongside mice, badgers, and otters. Despite their fierce reputation in battle, hares prefer solitude and quiet hunting grounds when not threatened by foes like rats or stoats. Their loyalty is earned through trust rather than command, making them steadfast allies once a bond is formed with Redwall Abbey or other heroic groups.

Did You Know?

• Hares are treated as biologically distinct from rabbits in the lore, often depicted as larger and more aggressive, and are almost always part of the Long Patrol, a large military regiment.
• They serve as elite soldiers and scouts for Salamandastron, under the command of the Badger Lord or Badger Lady.
• Unlike rabbits who live in large warrens, hares live in organized military camps or at Salamandastron, not in solitary burrows.