As the Earth’s axis tilts, the spring equinox arrives, typically falling between March 19th and 21st in the Northern Hemisphere. This year, the alignment occurred in the UK on Wednesday, 20th March at 3:06 am.
The term “equinox” stems from two Latin words signifying equal and night. Beyond being a mere seasonal shift, this celestial event acts as a natural alarm clock for many creatures, signalling a dramatic change in their behaviours.
A Stirring of Wildlife:
Hedgehogs emerge from their burrows, blinking in the prolonged daylight. Ladybugs awaken from their slumber, their vibrant hues painting a lively scene across the awakening earth. Migratory birds return from their journeys south, their melodic tunes filling the atmosphere with a symphony of rejuvenation. Squirrels, ever-industrious, dart about gathering provisions in anticipation of the forthcoming abundance of spring.
Equinox Facts:
Did you know that certain frog species synchronize their mating calls precisely with the onset of the equinox? And this remarkable phenomenon underscores the profound impact of celestial events on animal behaviour. Moreover, birds such as robins adjust the hue of their plumage in response to daylight, intensifying their redness as the days lengthen—a subtle adaptation aimed at attracting mates.
Symbolism and Customs:
Animals have long been intertwined with the fabric of spring equinox traditions. The playful rabbit, a potent symbol of fertility in numerous cultures, embodies the season’s promise of new life. The butterfly’s metamorphosis, from humble caterpillar to graceful winged creature, mirrors the transformative essence of spring. The ancient Germanic festival of Ostara, observed by pagans, paid homage to the goddess Eostre, possibly lending her name to our modern “Easter.” So this festivity, featuring eggs and hares (precursors to the Easter Bunny), underscores the historical link between spring and animal symbolism.
Renewal for All:
The spring equinox serves as a poignant reminder of nature’s innate capacity for renewal. Just as the animal kingdom awakens and flourishes, so too can we embrace this time of metamorphosis. So, let us cast off the figurative winter coats of our routines and embrace the potential for fresh beginnings. Whether sowing seeds of intention, venturing outdoors to witness nature’s awakening, or simply pausing to heed the birdsong, reconnecting with the natural world offers a profound way to honour the spring equinox and harness its transformative essence.
Nature’s Marvels
Our ‘Stories, Science, & Secrets’ family podcast series is available now. It features chapters from the award-winning ‘Lost on Infinity’ audiobook (download Part 1 FREE here), followed by fun, wonder, and fact-packed discussions on the many themes explored in it. You can find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts links here.
View our growing collection of biomimicry examples – nature’s marvels: on our Pinterest page here.