Wildlife photographer snaps action shots of Suffolk hares

Don't tell these mad March hares it's still only February.

Wildlife photographer Frances Browne says she camped out in hedges and ditches to capture the antics of the Suffolk critters.

She said: "I have been spending many hours out with my camera trying to capture some boxing action in preparation for the Mad March Hares season.

"Spring brings the start of a fascinating wildlife spectacle, boxing amongst the brown hares.

"Contrary to popular belief, it is not the males fighting for the right to mate, but a female warding off the advances of the over excited males.

"She gives them a good sorting out and clearly says “no thank you” if she is not ready to mate.

"Fur flying, eyes closed for protection, they stand on their hind legs and box. They perform some agile acrobatic moves hence the phrase “Mad as a March Hare".

"Although I love photographing all wildlife, the shy and secretive brown hares are a favourite, but with their amazing eyesight and incredible burst of speed they are very difficult subjects to catch on camera.

"No amount of expensive equipment will make up for good observation skills, endless patience and the ability to sit quietly in a ditch for hours."

Frances shot her pictures on Suffolk farmland.