Have you started to notice signs of spring in your neighborhood? If so, you might be an amateur phenologist!

Phenology is the study of seasonal natural phenomena, with a focus on climate, plant, and animal life. The best part is, no fancy tools are required to be a phenologist! In fact, a notebook or some other method for recording information (e.g. scrap paper or phone/tablet), and at least some of your five senses (taste, touch, smell, sound, sight), are all you need!

Consider recording information on changes you are observing near where you live. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• When did you first start to hear more birds singing? Are there specific bird calls you recognize that you now hear?
• Have you noticed any new buds on trees? 
• Have you been able to smell any flower blossoms yet? 
• Have you heard any frog or toad calls in the early evening? 

Record your observations in a way that makes sense to you, just be sure to include the date and approximate time of your observations, to help you keep track of these experiences. You might even bring a few art supplies out with you to sketch some of your sightings. Keep recording throughout a full year, and then look back at your log. Better yet, if you keep recording year after year, you will have a phenological record of your area that will allow you to notice changes in time!

The Minnesota Zoo would love to see examples of how you used this activity at home! Please share pictures or comments via email at [email protected], and take less than 5 minutes of time to provide us feedback by completing this short survey.