I took a photo of a young whitetail deer drinking water while I was standing on the Phillip Parks Memorial Fishing Pier located at Reeves Slough, which is part of the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
Here are some interesting facts about how whitetail deer quench their thirst:
Whitetail deer aren’t picky drinkers. From troughs and ponds to babbling brooks and mighty rivers, they utilize any source nature offers. Dew-kissed leaves, winter snow, even muddy puddles – no drop goes to waste. But nature’s bounty isn’t their only source. The water content in their diet, both preformed (found in their food) and metabolic (produced internally), plays a vital role.
Research in the Southeastern U.S. shows that with ample rainfall, humidity, and succulent plants, whitetail deer there might not need daily surface water. However, summer’s heat and scarce rain make it crucial, especially for lactating does who need extra hydration for milk production.
Northern deer usually get most of their winter water requirements by eating green needles, buds, and branches. They may also drink free water or eat snow when available.
Bucks drink a lot of water, with a mature buck able to consume upward of 5 quarts of water per day.
These fascinating facts paint a vivid picture of how whitetail deer, from Oklahoma’s swamplands to the frozen north, meet their water needs. It’s a testament to nature’s adaptability and reminds us of the importance of protecting diverse habitats and water resources for these magnificent creatures.
So, the next time you spot a whitetail deer taking a sip, remember the hidden world of water woven into its life. And who knows, you might just capture a magical moment like mine!
Image Information:
Gear Used:
- Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II (attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro)
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: January 29, 2021 (08:55 A. M.)
- Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f5.6
- Shutter speed: 1/480 (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 1000
- Exposure Compensation: -0.33
- Focal Length: 400 mm