RECORD temperatures over summer have caused havoc with nature in what appears to be a blurring of the seasons.
With significantly milder weather over the past few months, it appears that summer in the borough - and across the region as a whole - is lingering longer, with signs of spring appearing earlier.
But while many may like their winter coats to remain at the back of the wardrobe, the Met Office has warned that it is the actions of humans that have caused these freak changes and Friends of the Earth say much more action is needed over climate change.
Leaves are staying on the trees for longer, grass continues to grow later in the year, blackberries appear earlier and butterflies are spotted much later.
Oldham's biodiversity officer, Stacey Coughill, confirmed sightings of butterflies, ladybirds, and certain species of bats much later in the year than is usually expected, which she puts this down to milder temperatures.
Martin Walker, from the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, added: "We have seen more population explosions of butterflies and dragon flies that did not used to be associated with this area such as the humming bird hawk moth.
"Other types, such as the clouded yellow and holly blue butterflies and black-tailed skimmer and broad-bodied chaser dragonflies, are becoming more and more noticeable."
The changes have had a knock on effect for the borough's parks, cemeteries and green spaces team, who have had to work extra hard to keep on top of things.
Steve Smith, group manager, said: "I think the biggest thing we're struggling with is cutting grass. Our mowing season used to start in April and finish in September - now we start in March and are still cutting now.
"Not only is it more expensive, but there's the problem of programming and fitting all the jobs in. We're preparing for spring while we're still cutting.
"Roses are still flowering, summer bedding plants are still in full flow. It is worrying - in 35 years in service I have seen some major seasonal changes. With the exception of last year, previous winters have become milder.
"We're cutting grass in January when, 25 or 30 years ago, that was unheard of. It's no wonder people are getting concerned about climate change. People have all got to be more responsible about the energy we use."
This summer - measured from May to September - was the longest continuous period of hot weather experienced in this country since records began in 1659.
Met Office figures for Greater Manchester in the first half of October show temperatures have been above average by up to three degrees centigrade.
John Hammond, of the Met Office, said: "The recent rapid warming is almost certainly due to human influence. This is the first time this has been rigorously identified on such a small geographic scale."
Ali Abbas, from Manchester Friends of the Earth, added: "Thousands of people across Greater Manchester have written to their MPs as part of our 'Big Ask' campaign, calling for a Climate Change Bill with annual emissions targets. We urge Oldham residents to join the campaign.
"Next month, Tony Blair has the perfect opportunity to answer our call and show real leadership on climate change by including this Bill in the Queen's Speech."