What do you consider the most trusted sign in nature that spring really has arrived in the U.P. region? Returning birds, such as this common grackle, all decked out for breeding? Red-winged blackbirds and robins already have been seen in the area, along with the first sandhill cranes. Or maybe you don’t trust the changing season until the later feathered migrants show up, such as tree swallows, Northern flicker woodpeckers and orioles. Perhaps that first crocus or daffodil? Willow catkins? Spring peepers calling? The first chipmunk — or even bear — to raid the feeders? The Daily News would welcome your photos of these “firsts” for 2018 as winter loses its grip. They can be brought to the Daily News office at 215 E. Ludington St. in downtown Iron Mountain, or emailed to news@ironmountaindailynews.com. If emailed, please include the photographer’s name and community where it was taken.