Signs of Spring in Eastern Iowa

By Michelle Marine

on Mar 10, 2012

5 Comments

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Yesterday morning we played outside in the 38 degree weather. As I lamented the cold temps, I decided I must find out if spring is on the way. Here is photographic evidence from my yard THAT SPRING IS NIGH!


Budding lily – love their pretty orange flowers.


Budding lilac – can’t wait for their fragrant blossoms.


Grass – a sign of impending work… {sigh}


Rock sculptures – I love that playing with mud, rocks, and sticks is not beneath my children.


Dirty children! The bathtub is about to get a massive workout (and my broom and mop…)

But the best sign of spring is the return of the Red Wing Blackbirds. Last year I learned from my friend Melanie that their return to Eastern Iowa signals spring. I was determined to watch out for their arrival this year; but alas, I forgot, until I noticed them a couple days ago. Melanie first spotted them on Feb 28 this year. Last year she spotted them on Feb 19. It’s pretty interesting that they are later this year than last, since last year’s winter was so much nastier. In any case, WELCOME HOME Red Wing Blackbirds! I’m ready for spring. It can warm up any day now…

What are the signs of spring in your neck of the woods?

About Michelle Marine

Michelle Marine is the author of How to Raise Chickens for Meat, a long-time green-living enthusiast, and rural Iowa mom of four. She empowers families to grow and eat seasonal, local foods; to reduce their ecological footprint; and to come together through impactful travel.

Read More About Me

You May Also Like:

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

5 Comments

  1. Oh how lovely! I really want to start learning about birds to photograph with the kids. I’ll keep an eye out for the red wing blackbird. Since I’m in the city, do you think I should try to get some bird feeders out to attract them? I have a lot of learning to do 😉

    Reply

    1. I have a lot of learning to do, too. We have a few feeders that the birds love, but I could do a lot better. From talking to people who attract lots of birds, feeders seem to work! Good luck!

      Reply

  3. Grass – yes, definitely a sign of spring, and a reminder that I didn’t clean up last year’s beds very well.

    We have red-winged blackbirds in our local marsh which reminds me that it’s time to go visit the marsh. I wish they were closer; I love their calls.

    Reply