The value of different ecotopes as hunting areas for the hare in prefectures of Thessaloniki and Chalkidiki

Mediterranean ecosystems are characterized by a variety of ecotopes. Different ecotopes offer hunting in different quantity and quality to hunting license holders. This offer was examined for the harvest of hares. For 291 harvested hares (Lepus europaeus) in the prefectures of Thessaloniki and Chalkidiki the ecotype was described in position that hares were hunted. The greatest harvest in unit area was recorded in areas with mosaic of cereals, olive groves and forest vegetation, in contrast the lowest in woodland with arboreal vegetation. The classification of ecotopes according to the hunting value contributes to the appropriate management.