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Blackthorn blossom
Blackthorn is one of the first trees to blossom, providing a valuable early source of nectar for bees, and a spectacular display of frothy white flowers.
Chiffchaff
These are among the first birds to return from Africa in spring. They’re small and fairly plain-looking, so the easiest way to identify them is by their song.
Flying insects
All sorts of flying insects emerge in spring, including butterflies, dragonflies, ladybirds and mayflies. Keep an eye out in areas of grassland or near water.
Primrose
This hardy flower brightens up woods and hedgerows in spring. It was a favourite of Prime Minster Benjamin Disraeli, who lived at Hughenden in Buckinghamshire.
Boxing hares
The sight of boxing hares is a hallmark of spring. Rather than competition between males, this behaviour is actually females fending off unwanted male attention.
Violet
There are two main types of wild violet you might find in early spring. Common Dog-violets lack scent, but Sweet Violets were used as perfume in Ancient Greece.
Frogspawn and toadspawn
Frog and toad spawn can be found in ponds from January to March. Frog spawn is always laid in jelly-like clumps, whilst toad spawn comes in long chains.
Early Purple Orchid
This is one of the earliest orchids to appear in meadows and woods in spring. Look out for pink-purple flowers and dark green leaves with dark spots.
Cuckoo
The cuckoo’s call is instantly recognisable, although they’re now quite rare. Listen out for them in grassland and reedbed habitats around late March and April.
