Swedish Historical Phenology Dataset

The dataset contains reports of phenological observations, made at more than 700 locations throughout Sweden between 1865 and 1951. The observations were mainly conducted by local weather observers, assigned by the Swedish Weather Service (formerly named SMCA, now SMHI), so weather data can also be found for many of these locations, to support to the phenological observations. For weather data, contact SMHI (see www.smhi.se).

The dataset consists of 345 806 posts of phenology observations, in total. The main part of the phenological data consists of observations of budburst, flowering, ripening of fruits and autumn coloured leaves on plants and trees, but also spring and autumn migration of migratory birds, agricultural activities like when spring tillage begins and sowing and harvest begins, and also activities of a few insects.

The dataset was digitized and supplied by the Swedish National Phenology Network (SWE-NPN), a network lead by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), and includes partners from several Swedish universities, governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations. Uppsala University and SMHI has contributed to this dataset, by digitizing the original forms, which they possess. For more information about the Phenology network, see www.swe-npn.se.

The phenological observations were made according to the protocol that was set by the SMCA (see uploaded files of the forms used by the observers, in Swedish). The observations was assessed regularly, on average once a week, or when needed, and the date when a new phenological phase occurred was noted in a form. Digital copies of the original forms are available on request. The dataset contains a file with observations, observation_standalone.csv, which can be used alone, without supporting files. This file contains all necessary information for using the data, e.g. coordinates (lat/long) for the location where the observation were made, species name (scientific), phenological phase and the date. The dataset also contains a file with observations, observation.csv, where the location, officiant, species and phenological phase are coded. To use this file, you need the supporting files included in the dataset, for locations, officiant names, species names and phenological phase descriptions.