As I drove along the auto tour road at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, a movement caught my eye—a Striped Skunk slowly making its way toward me. I parked my pickup, got out, and prepared to take some photos.
Observing the Skunk Up Close
I positioned myself low to the ground near my pickup, ensuring I stayed still and out of the skunk’s direct path to avoid startling it, and began photographing as it approached. As it got closer, I realized it was carrying something in its mouth—a baby skunk. When the skunk spotted me, it froze mid-step, its body tense and tail raised slightly, signaling alarm. I stayed still, and after a moment, it relaxed and continued past me. I was able to get a few good shots.
I waited in the area for over 30 minutes, hoping to see the skunk and its babies again, but they didn’t return.
Why Skunks Relocate Their Young
This behavior, like the skunk carrying its baby past me, highlights how Striped Skunks often relocate their young to different locations. This behavior is a protective measure to ensure their safety. Skunks create burrows or dens for their offspring, offering a secure place away from predators and other dangers. By moving their babies, they reduce the risk of discovery by predators, humans, or other threats and provide a safe environment.
This protective instinct is especially important during the early stages of a skunk’s life when the young are most vulnerable and depend on their parent for survival.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: May 18, 2023 (09:22 A. M.)
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/2500
- ISO: 1600 (Auto)
- Exp. Comp.: 0
- Focal Length: 500 mm
Great story, Steve, and good comments. Thanks for posting!
Thank you!