It’s true: Spring is finally coming to Edinburgh. After many long, cold winter months, it’s time to bring a little light back to our lives. Spring meteorologically begins on the 20 March, which is when daylight and dark hours become equal. However, there are a few early signs to look out for around Edinburgh which hint to the fact that plants and animals (and students!) are ready to come out of their winter hibernation.
Plants: This month, you should begin to see leaves unfurling on native trees, and some will be experiencing their first new growth of the year. Keep an eye out for ash, beech and oak buds bursting out at this time of year, and leaves growing from alder, field maple and silver birch trees. Many of you may also be waiting for the famous cherry blossoms to start falling from the beautiful trees along the meadows, which start to come out in April.
Crocuses are also an early spring bloomer. You may have already been able to spot these little purple and white flowers along the sides of The Meadows. Snowdrops, wood anemone and bluebells will also start to bloom during March, adding some more pops of colour to your morning walks.
Animals: As the volume of flowers increases, their pollinator populations also start to grow. Peacock and small tortoiseshell butterflies start coming out at the end of February, and will be followed by brimstone, comma and red admiral butterflies.
Migratory birds will be returning to the UK after their long winter away, notably the sand martin and wheatear. You may also have already started hearing the classic spring song of our resident blackbird as they prepare to breed, which is one of the first to call out at dawn – a sure indicator that spring is coming.
Observing: The best way to start spotting these signs of spring is to go explore green areas around Edinburgh. The Meadows is a great, accessible place to start. However, you might want to go on a little adventure to somewhere like the Pentlands to absorb the best of the early spring atmosphere. Happy spring everyone!
Illustration by Charlie Arah