Being a wildlife photographer, I always have my camera by my side to capture the amazing things in nature. During a recent trip to Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, I had an extraordinary experience that reminded me of the surprising wonders around us. On that day, I saw a big Crawdad trying to cross the road. It was a brave and impressive sight. I want to share with you the story of this exciting encounter and the incredible photo I managed to take.
The Unexpected Encounter:
While driving on the auto tour road, I was excited to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Suddenly, something unusual caught my eye. I spotted a big Crawdad near the edge of the road. Its colorful shell stood out against the gray road. Intrigued, I parked my vehicle and walked towards the Crawdad, ready to take pictures of this amazing moment.
The Photographer’s Perspective:
Accompanying me on this adventure was my talented friend and fellow photographer, Mia McPherson. Seeing the opportunity to capture a unique shot, Mia snapped a photo of me in action, sitting on the road with my camera focused on the Crayfish.
Capturing the Moment:
With my camera in hand, I carefully observed the Crayfish, capturing its intricate details and remarkable colors. Through the lens, I immortalized its delicate claws, elegant antennae, and captivating eyes. One particular photograph stood out, showcasing the Crawdad’s defiant stance with its pincers up, emanating a sense of strength and determination.
Ensuring the Crayfish’s Safety:
While capturing this incredible moment was important, my responsibility as a wildlife enthusiast extended beyond just taking pictures. As a steward of nature, I understood the potential dangers that the Crayfish faced on its ambitious journey. After securing a few shots, I made sure to provide a helping hand to the Crayfish, gently guiding it off the road and back towards its natural habitat. It was a simple act, but one that carried the significance of preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Conclusion:
My encounter with the road-crossing Crayfish at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge was a humbling reminder of the precious moments we can witness when we immerse ourselves in nature. As a wildlife photographer, my mission is to capture these fleeting moments, preserving them for others to appreciate and connect with the world around us. The Crayfish’s determination to overcome obstacles and my commitment to its safety made this encounter truly special. May it inspire others to value and protect the natural wonders that surround us, both big and small.
Remember, when you embark on your own adventures in the great outdoors, take a moment to appreciate the intricate beauty of every living creature and play your part in preserving their habitats for generations to come.
Here is a photo I took back in 2020 of another Crawdad crossing the road: Crayfish Crossing The Road
Equipment Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical Details:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: June 19, 2023 (07:41 A. M.)
- Aperture: f10
- Shutter speed: 1/500
- ISO: 6400 (Auto)
- Exp. Comp.: +1.0
- Focal Length: 500 mm
Photographing you photographing that crawdad was as much fun as photographing the crawdad for me!