Family photos are fun to share and I found one in the archive on this day, back in 2009. Brenda Leigh spotted a feathered family that seems to be out for a stroll in the Menominee area. I'm guessing they were there around a residence to keep away from predators. Fun picture with the parents and kids like that.

While we're talking feathers, another archive shot, shared in 2012 and snapped by Duane Haralson is the second photo of a Hummingbird. Amazing to get in that close and the photo to be so crystal clear, you almost feel like you could reach out and touch that dainty little bird.

Some critters are more skittish and don't come around much when they know there are humans around. So in order to get a good photo, you have to be in the right place, at the right time, which is exactly what Fred Koski was while hiking in the Huron Mountains on Monday. I asked him how he was able to snap such a good shot of this Pine Marten without spooking him and scaring it off. He said he was just lucky it ran up the tree and stayed there a bit. I don't think luck had as much to do with it, as Fred being a skilled photographer, too. Great capture!

So, since we're checking out birds and critters, I thought today's feature video should encompass them, too. Hope you enjoy a look at some of the feathered and furry friends that visit here UP North.

Can't go wrong with animal pictures. I love
animal pictures. But then I love most of the
pictures posted here. The video was a nice touch.
Have a great Tuesday!

What a cool video....excellent stuff!!

Cute little guys but bet they are as fierce as their cousins. Have never seen a pine marten in the forest ~ they are welcome to all the red squirrels they can catch!!

Excellent pix and the video is in my top-five category. The detail, clarity and smooth camera motion was a treat to watch...thanks for sharing.

I really enjoyed the pics and the video today. Critters and creatures are always good features.

The deer and fawn back in 2014 were certainly cute too!

And based on UC's comment back then, i guess we should say:

Mary,
Congrats, on your 11 year anniversary with Lutheran!
Mary says: Thanks, jbuck!!

Hi
Jbuck, I completely agree as regards the red squirrels.

As to the sandhill cranes, I know of cases where they have gotten used to people. At Kensington Metropark down here in SE Michigan, they frequently share the hiking trails or hang out near the parking lot. Pretty cool. However, I've heard that some people try to feed them--by hand! You wouldn't catch me putting my hand in the path of that long sharp bill.