Snowdrops (IMAGE) UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Caption The study used the date of first flowering as a sign of spring. Credit Ross Newham / Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.