Melissa Brandts and her husband set the timer on their camera for a romantic lakeside snap – only for the ground squirrel to pop-up last minute and steal the show.

The picture was taken at the idyllic Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park, Canada.

Mrs Brandts said: "We had our camera set up on some rocks and were getting ready to take the picture when this curious little ground squirrel appeared, became intrigued with the sound of the focusing camera and popped right into our shot!

"It was a once in a lifetime moment - we were laughing about this little guy for days!"

The squirrel, who does not appear to have a name – or an agent, maintains its shapely figure with a diet of fruit, plants and small insects.

Contrary to conventional wisdom, it is unlikely to eat many nuts – a large source of fat for would-be models.

The squirrel will probably not be available for many more photo shoots - particularly winter collections - due to its fear of people and also because the species are known to hibernate deeply during the colder months. (read less)

Melissa Brandts and her husband set the timer on their camera for a romantic lakeside snap – only for the ground squirrel to pop-up last minute and steal the show.

The picture was taken at the idyllic Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park, Canada.

Mrs Brandts said: "We had our camera set up on some rocks and were getting ready to take the picture when this curious little ground squirrel appeared, became intrigued with the sound of the focusing camera and popped right into our shot!

"It was... (read more)