I was driving the auto tour road at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma when I spotted a Striped Skunk walking toward me in the distance. I parked my pickup and got out to see if I could get a few photos of this skunk.
I got into position and started photographing the skunk as it walked toward me. As it got closer, I noticed that it had something in its mouth. This skunk was carrying a baby skunk!
A Skunk Carrying a Baby Skunk
The skunk noticed me and became alarmed, but I remained still, and it relaxed and walked past me. I got a few good photos. I waited in the area for over 30 minutes to see if it had any more babies, but I didn’t see it again.
Skunk Carrying Its Precious Cargo
It is not uncommon for Striped Skunks to move their babies to different locations. The primary reason behind this behavior is to ensure the safety and protection of their young. Skunks are known to create burrows or dens for their offspring, providing a secure environment away from potential predators and other hazards. By relocating their babies, skunks reduce the risk of discovery and keep them sheltered from harm. This protective instinct is vital during the vulnerable early stages of a skunk’s life when they heavily rely on their parent’s guidance and protection.
I am happy to remember this experience. It reminds me of the delicate balance of life in the animal kingdom. The Striped Skunk’s love for its young shows the strong bonds found in nature. It is a reminder of the beauty and strength that can be seen, even in the most unexpected moments.
The Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is a safe place for many different animals. It gives people who love animals and nature a chance to see the wonders of the world. It is a place where special moments, like the one I had with the Striped Skunk and its babies, can happen. These moments leave a mark on your soul.
I left the refuge with a grateful heart. I felt a new appreciation for the complex web of life that surrounds us. Wildlife photography is a way to see the hidden treasures of the natural world. It can also make us want to protect and preserve nature for future generations.
I hope this special encounter reminds us that all living things are connected. It should inspire us to cherish and protect our precious wildlife. This will ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty of nature.
Gear Used:
- Camera:Â 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.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- 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!