I had an exciting bobcat encounter while driving the auto tour road at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. I was on the west side of an area called Tuff Pond, when a bobcat caught my eye in a field just north of the road.
This beautiful bobcat was intently hunting along the edge of the field. It would take slow, measured steps, then freeze in place for several minutes at a time, patiently scanning for prey. I was able to watch it hunt for several minutes, completely enthralled by its fluid, stealthy movements.
After a while, the bobcat took a brief break from its hunt to lay down on the edge of the field. It rested there, looking calmly in my direction. I was able to capture a couple photos of it during its rest, before I decided to drive away and let it enjoy its break.
Bobcats are not commonly seen at Sequoyah NWR, so I felt very fortunate to observe this one going about its daily hunting routine. Seeing this secretive wild cat in its natural habitat was a special treat and a highlight of my refuge visit. I’ll remember that sly, intense gaze for a long time to come.
Spotting wildlife while exploring our national wildlife refuges is always an adventure. You never know what beautiful, fascinating creatures you might encounter along the way. I can’t wait to get back out on the auto tour road to see what I might spot next!
Gear:
- Camera: Canon EOS 1D Mark III
- Lens: Canon EF 500 mm f/4L IS
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date & Time Taken: March 21, 2009 (10:45 A.M.)
- Aperture: f4
- Shutter speed: 1/2000 sec. (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 200
- Exposure Compensation: 0
- Focal Length: 500 mm