THE first snowdrops are in bloom - but spring may have sprung too soon for some early risers.

The current mild weather is bringing butterflies, bumble bees and other small animals out of hibernation earlier than normal, according to experts.

Jonathan Leadley, of the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, said their “alarm clock” is sounded by a series of days of temperatures above a certain level.

However, if the weather turns cold during the next couple of months the early risers will go back into hibernation, he said. By waking now, they could be using up energy reserves and may die before full Spring.

Snowdrops however, are not ahead of schedule, and normally appear about now in Yorkshire.

For those waiting to enjoy them, the National Trust recommends Beningbrough Hall, north of York, and Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal near Ripon.