Eight signs of spring you may have never noticed

Our ecologists work hard to make sure our canals and rivers are home to a huge variety of flora and fauna. We've asked them for their favourite signs of spring and they've come back with all kinds of things you may never have noticed.

Herons

For most of the year, these loners of the canals have a solitary existence, but come spring, they join together to form breeding colonies in the crowns of tall trees close to water. Like many water birds, herons are early nesters, so early spring is a great opportunity to see them nest building and pair bonding before the leaves emerge on the trees and conceal the young as they fledge.

Coltsfoot

This is a strange plant with leaves shaped like a horse's foot. It produces flowers before its leaves come out. You're more likely to find it in the wetter edges along the canal towpath.

Catkins

Many trees along the canal sprout catkins in the spring. Take a local walk and see how many different types of catkin you can spot.

Returning birds

Many birds returning from warmer climates are small with big voices, especially the warblers. Their songs are often beautiful and complex, and quite difficult to identify. However, one that is very distinctive is the chiff-chaff. Its name describes its song, 'chiff-chaff, chiff-chaff'.

Blackthorn blossom

A 'blackthorn winter' describes when we get cold weather in spring, when the blackthorn is in bloom. Its pale blossoms are often matched by frost-whitened grass or snow-covered fields.

Whitlow grass

Take a look at this attractive plant, often found around lock brickwork. It looks like a miniature white carpet of flowers. It's common but easily over-looked.

Butterbur

This plant has pink bottle-brush flowers that are later replaced by huge umbrella leaves. Each year we get plenty of enquiries about what these strange looking plants are.

Insects

Any warm sunny days through the spring may bring a variety of insects out from their winter hibernation. Look out for bumblebees and some of our larger butterflies, as red admirals and yellow brimstones can often be seen.