Top Photo: Redbud, about to burst wide open.

March 1 is the first day of Spring. Many wait till the equinox to proclaim the season, but for me it’s the first day of March. Most meteorologist agree.

Besides the photo of the redbud above, here’s a group of photos which may help confirm the arrival of the season.

A single soft-white flower and a single rounded, lobed, leaf means bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis). Red juice from the stem can be used as a dye and as insect repellent. Careful, the root can be fatal if swallowed.

Red buckeye continues to move forward. Flower buds are showing.

Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is shooting out leaves.

Wintergreen barberry (Berberis julianae) is in bloom. Be careful of the formidable thorns on this one.

And how are the animals reacting to the season?

Birds are singing.

Pickerel frogs have been seen heading towards water and actually calling out their rolling, snore-like songs from the wetlands.

And the mammals?

An eastern cottontail.

Ranger Ren and Volunteer Sammie try to capture an image of a pair of red-shouldered hawks.

Ranger Dakota is happy spring is here.

Exhibits Director John happily works on video monitor at Red Wolf Enclosure.

Ranger Robert and Volunteer Sammie are enjoying the season.

Hope you’re smiling and happy too. It’s springtime!