A Spring in Our Step?

Many people look forward to an early onset of Spring. It has been pointed out, however, that the UK's Spring season has been creeping forward for decades (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/feb/13/early-spring-changing-behaviour-flora-fauna-climate-change). Blooms, butterflies, beetles and birds have all been reported earlier than at times previously recorded. These changes are all clearly a consequence of global temperature rise, emanating from the effects of 'greenhouse gases'. This profound reminder of climate change should not, however, be unreservedly welcomed. Many of we humans (especially older folk such as I) like to escape the chills of winter. The disruptions of nature's natural timings can, however, be catastrophic for some species. Things become unsynchronised. Pollinators or food sources may not be available to early emergers. Disease agents may not be controlled by a traditional cold snap. One also has to remember that global heating produces 'climate change'. A reduction in the predictability of weather patterns can, and does, result in extreme events. Spring isn't the only season that is going to change!