I am a big fan of spring.  As the weather gets warmer (but not too hot and sticky!), I find that my spirit feels a little lighter.  Maybe you do too?  It certainly helps that the days are getting longer and the sun is still shining during dinner even!

Here in New England, there are some lovely signs of spring to note.  Believe it or not, we can see early signs of spring in February and March.  We might be hearing Black-Capped Chickadees singing their “Spring Song.”  To some folks it sounds like “my tree!”  As Chickadees pair off, we can hear this song more frequently. 

If you happen to be in wetland areas, you may notice that Skunk Cabbages are blooming.  In fact, the Skunk Cabbage can even flower in early February (according to Mass Audubon) because their tissues are capable of generating heat and melting the snow and ice around them.  How amazing is that?  While Skunk Cabbages are not the most attractive “spring flowers” out there, they are quite unique and a sign of warmer days ahead.

Another sign of spring is the appearance of butterflies.  For instance, the Mourning Cloak Butterfly can already be seen in forests.  They tend to overwinter as adults in tree cavities or underneath bark.  By spring, they emerge and flutter about on the wind. 

Finally, we may hear Wood Frogs quacking.  These frogs are able to survive the winter by burrowing in soil or leaf litter.  Wood Frogs emerge from their hiding spots in March and April and lay their eggs in vernal pools.  Males can be heard making courtship calls that sound like ducks quacking.[1]

All around us there are beautiful signs of spring in God’s creation, especially now that spring is really upon us!  Maybe you’ve seen Robins or you’ve heard the “Spring Song” of Black-Capped Chickadees.  Maybe you’ve marveled at butterflies alighting on the wind or Hummingbirds back at the feeder in your yard.  Maybe you’ve been admiring spring flowers.  In the end, I am wishing you a wonderful month ahead as we can marvel at another glorious season.

Grace & Peace,
Pastor Lauren

[1] “Four Early Signs of Spring,” Mass Audubon, March 11, 2024, https://www.massaudubon.org/news/latest/four-early-signs-of-spring

Photo by Jack Bulmer on Unsplash