SIGHTINGS of snowdrops can help scientists understand climate change, according to a nature conservation charity.

The Woodland Trust is urging people to help them assess the impact of climate change on the UK's most popular species, from snowdrops and bluebells to frogs and song thrushes.

"By letting us know when and where you saw your first snowdrop or frogspawn of the year, we can begin to understand the impact of climate change on such species," said Dr Kate Lewthwaite, from the trust.

Snowdrops were seen in Devon as early as January 3 last year with the average date recorded as February 3, while frogspawn sightings peaked at around February 13.

The trust has records going back to the 1600s and new data will help it make comparisons.

For further information visit www.nat urescalendar.co.uk.