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The dawn chorus is one of the classic sounds of spring. Ellie Harrison wakes up just before sunrise and meets scientist Mark Eaton to discover why birds sing so loudly at this time of year. With the help of a sound recordist, Ellie records the beautiful birdsong using a specialist piece of equipment called a parabolic reflector. Her recording is handed to beat boxer turned vocal sculptor Jason Singh. To Ellie’s astonishment Jason interprets this recording using only his voice!

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Adam Henson explains why the spring weather is so important for his crops. Weatherman John Hammond takes Adam on a journey to find out more about the science behind the tumultuous weather at this time of year. They start at Adam’s farm with a series of experiments that involve straw bales, fodder beet and a dip in a freezing cold duck pond – all in the name of science. ÌýThe dynamic duo then drive to a radar station to find out more about how April showers are tracked. Adam helps make his own cloud in a bottle and John sends him on a tricky mission to chase an April shower.

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During April a mass spectacle occurs on the River Tweed – the hatching of March brown mayflies. Only when the light is perfect will the mayflies appear from the depths of the river to take flight. This event occurs around lunchtime and is very easy to miss as it only lasts for a short time. Kenny Galt, a keen angler, explains more about this amazing sight and how the mayfly hatching helps anglers to catch trout.

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Common cranes were lost as a breeding bird in the south west around 400 years ago. But, as Matt Baker discovers, this is set to change. Every year since 2010 precious eggs have been transported from Germany to Slimbridge where they are reared before release in Somerset. Some of the crane chicks have recently hatched. With the help of expert Nigel Jarrett, Matt is given the chance to be a ‘crane dad’. In Somerset Matt helps Damon Bridge, a crane expert, locate the released birds using a radio receiver to find out how well they have been getting on in their new home.

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John Craven visits Brogdale Farm, where the largest display of fruit trees and plants in the world can be found. He meets Dr Joan Morgan, also known as the ‘Queen of Apples’, who is writing a book about pears. ÌýJoan tells John why spring allows her to celebrate blossom and why she records these exquisite flowers. John then takes a sprig of blossom to Elisabeth Dowle, a talented botanical artist, and finds out more about her work.

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Alex James, of Blur fame, explains why the season of spring is so influential to him and his music. After moving away from central London to the countryside he soon discovered a passion for classical music. He tells us how the countryside inspires him and enlists the help of his friend, William Lovelady, to play one of their most recent compositions.

Padstow May Day is like no other. It is an event that is shrouded in mystery and involves two ‘Osses’ – stylised recreations of horses - Ìýtwirling through the streets of Padstow. Ellie joins the crowd this year and meets cultural historian Doc Rowe to find out more about this colourful celebration. Peter Prideaux-Brune, owner of Prideaux Place, gives Ellie a very special invitation to watch the Blue Ribbon ‘Oss dance through the historic house. But Ellie soon finds out that she won’t just be watching the event unfold.

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