All Clear

All Clear, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
The danger had passed and the male Sandhill Crane relaxes with a big yawn now that the winged hunter has flown to another part of the wetland.

Ever Vigilant

Ever Vigilant, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
The male Sandhill Crane is always on alert for danger in the woods. Here he is watching and listening as he hears something flying nearby in the treetops. A Red-tailed Hawk happened to fly nearby alerting the squirrels and other forest creatures to the presence of the winged hunter.

September's Sandhill

September's Sandhill, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
As the summer season is winding down the Sandhill is summoned to the southern climate for a winter sojourn.

Lake Breeze

Lake Breeze, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

The breeze on that morning was the outer flow from a hurricane impacting New York City and the Northeastern seaboard. We did not get any rain from the system but we did get the clouds and winds from the massive storm.

Up North Morning

Up North Morning, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
As we walked along the shoreline of Higgins Lake, I found many idyllic scenes of relaxing vacation moments. I loved the color scheme of the three Adirondack chairs and green garden swing all set up to view beautiful Higgins Lake. I wanted to go sit on those swings so badly, but could only look from the road and take a remembrance photo.

Slaty Skimmer - Trailside Perch

Slaty Skimmer - Trailside Perch, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
On a recent visit to Lewis Wint Nature Center at Independence Oaks County Park in Independence Twp., Michigan, I walked a trail alongside a marshland. I came upon creatures great and small resting in the mid-day heat. Two White-tailed Deer were resting comfortably in the middle of the woodlands, a Red-eyed Vireo was singing ove head and a Slaty Skimmer was perched upon a branch alongside the trail. The deer didn't stick around long once they saw me, however, I was able to watch this Slaty Skimmer perching and alternately dancing and hunting in the subtle breeze. I watched as this male snatched an insect and consumed it. I marveled at it's efficiency in capturing minute flying insects from mid-air. These encounters happen everyday in the woods, waters and fields of our state. Go out and watch for them and enjoy the great outdoors, you will be much rewarded by nature.

Spicebush Swallowtail On Phlox

Spicebush Swallowtail On Phlox, a photo by JKissnHug on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
A Spicebush Swallowtail dropped by my flower garden to enjoy nectar from my tall Garden Phlox.