Native bluebells are bouncing back – a sign that spring has sprung and a natural remedy to shake off the winter blues. A quintessential sign of spring, bluebells are often found in ancient woodland and usually make their debut around mid-April, depending upon region and the amount of sunlight reaching the woodland floor.

Reports are now suggesting a glimmer of blue throughout the country and the Woodland Trust is calling for the Northern Ireland public to record sightings of flowering bluebells as part of its Nature’s Calendar survey. Dr Kate Lewthwaite from the Woodland Trust said: “The UK has the most magnificent bluebell carpets in the world. Our native bluebells are often found in ancient woodland, a rare and precious wildlife habitat. With public help to build up a more detailed picture of when bluebells flower and where, we can better understand how they are affected by our changing climate.”

Long term records show that native bluebell flowering dates have advanced by five days in the last 50 years alone1, with other spring species flowering up to 12 days earlier over the last 25 years. The records are indicative of climate change, which the Trust has highlighted as one of the greatest long-term threats to ancient woodland.

Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust in Northern Ireland, said: “We’ve had some fairly early reports of bluebells2, with the first recorded on 9 April in Belfast. And now that the days are getting longer and spring is unfolding right across the country, this really is the perfect time to get out and about and enjoy your nearest woodland.

“Please do share your observations, as records from Northern Ireland are particularly scarce. And, while on the quest for bluebells, look out for other seasonal signs such as the first hawthorn blossom and oak leaves.”

To play a part or to simply find out more, visit www.naturescalendar.org.uk Fabulous bluebell facts: • In the Bronze Age, people used bluebell glue to attach feathers to their arrows.

• The Victorians used starch from crushed bluebells to stiffen the ruffs of their collars and sleeves.

• Legend says that a field of bluebells is intricately woven with fairy enchantments.

• Bluebells are important early flowers for bees, hoverflies and butterflies which feed on the nectar.

• Bees can 'steal' nectar from bluebells by biting a hole in the bottom of the bell. This allows them to reach the nectar without pollinating the flower.