First Signs of Spring: Snowdrops, Birdsong, and Daily Dog Walks

Even on the greyest February days, nature offers promises of spring’s arrival. As someone who walks daily with my two dogs – a routine that helps manage my fibromyalgia symptoms – I’ve become attuned to these subtle seasonal shifts. I really notice the difference in my pain levels on days when I don’t walk (usually it’s only ever migraines that would stop me getting out), and the mental health boost from these daily adventures in nature is just as valuable as the physical benefits.

This week has been a grey gloom fest from start to finish in our corner of the northern hemisphere, though rumour has it the sun might finally make an appearance tomorrow.

Snowdrops with white heads bowed dot the roadsides in the village where I live and this week, the first daffodils in the sunniest spots have bloomed. In the garden, the heather and hellebores are bringing some most welcome colour.

The bird are beginning to be more vocal – this week I heard my first greenfinches of the year and the rooks are certainly upping the volume too as I walk past the rookery in the woods. The farmers have finished all the hedge cutting in time for nesting season to begin and I can hear the bleating of the first born lambs of the season too, although they’re not yet out in the fields.

As the days lengthen and spring approaches, these daily walks become even more rewarding. Soon these subtle hints will give way to spring’s full arrival, but for now, I’m enjoying watching the season unfold one walk at a time.