The survey found almost six hares per square kilometre.

Carried out during the spring months, this year's Irish Hare survey found an average of almost six hares per square kilometre.

The DoE Environment and Heritage Service commissioned Quercus, the Queen's University Biodiversity Research Centre to conduct the study.

It was a repeat of a 2002 survey in which hares were estimated at a density of less than one per square kilometre.

Biologists have been concerned that the Irish Hare was in danger of extinction locally, but it is now believed that its population has the capacity to increase rapidly from low densities.

Concern over dwindling numbers of the Irish Hare led to a series of measures to protect the species, including a controversial ban on hare coursing introduced last year.

Everyone with an interest in the countryside will be heartened by the reported increase in Irish Hare numbers Dr John Faulkner DoE

Researchers have suggested that the increase may be down to favourable breeding conditions in the spring months of 2002 and 2003, when wet conditions may have delayed silage harvesting.

Dr John Faulkner of the DoE said it was very good news for local biodiversity and for the Irish Hare, which had become "remarkably scarce".

"Everyone with an interest in the countryside will be heartened by the reported increase in Irish Hare numbers," he said.

However, Dr Faulkner added caution must be taken when interpreting the latest results.

"This is a very positive result - but as the authors point out, it does not necessarily indicate a permanent recovery in the population," he said.

'Outright ban'

"To be certain that the increase is maintained, we need to continue with the conservation measures in place under the species action plan and carry out further surveys in future years."

Chief Executive of the League Against Cruel Sports Douglas Batchelor welcomed the increase but warned that a permanent ban on coursing and hunting was necessary to protect the hares.

"We want to see an outright ban on the cruel practice of chasing hares for 'sport', so that we can help ensure that this increase is not just an anomaly and the hare population can live free from any such further threat," he said.

Hares were counted by surveyors who would drive in the dark for about 100 km through each county.

They used a high-powered spotlight to illuminate fields, which allowed the hares to be easily seen.