WALKERS are being asked to help identify bluebells this spring as part of a national project.

The National History Museum is looking into how climate change and hybrids are affecting Britain's favourite wild flower.

It is hoped the public will help scientists build a clearer picture of the bluebell in Britain by taking part in an online survey.

The findings will not only inform scientists of the extent of our native bluebell population but it will also help them find out if our bluebell woods are under threat from Spanish and hybrid counterparts.

There are two species of bluebell in Britain - the familiar native bluebell or wild hyacinth (hyacinthoides non-scripta) and the cultivated Spanish bluebell (hyacinthoides hispanica).

A recent survey by wild plant conservation charity Plantlife showed that our native species is hybridising with cultivated bluebells, creating a third hybrid type. This can alter species genetic make up and make it harder for them to survive.

Climate change may also affect the future of our native bluebells. Early growth and flowering gives bluebells a head start over later developing plants, but warmer winters may mean they are losing their advantage as other plants start growing earlier.

Mariusz Wilczynski, membership development officer for the Ramblers' Association, said: "Bluebells bring joy to walkers everywhere in springtime, bursting into life in woodlands and hedgerows.

"Now as well as enjoying the sight of this lovely flower in the countryside, we can help scientists understand how they are responding to a changing environment."

For more information, visit www.ramblers.org.uk/ bluebells