In 2008, one of my photographs of a treed opossum was proudly featured on the Smithsonian Channel’s series Stories From The Vault. This recognition came in Episode 3: Nature’s Vault. The channel found my work through my Flickr photo while searching for a unique image of an opossum in a tree—a rare and captivating sight. My photo met their needs perfectly, showcasing this uncommon behavior with vivid detail.
Capturing the Treed Opossum Moment
I took this photograph at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, a military base surrounded by lush woodlands and open fields teeming with wildlife. During a drive through the area, I spotted two dogs cornering an opossum up in a tree. When I approached, the dogs retreated, giving me the opportunity to capture the moment.
Although photographing handheld in such conditions was challenging, the scene was too compelling to miss. The opossum in the tree demonstrated its adaptability and determination. This image testified to its resilience, captured forever through my lens.
The Story Behind Stories From The Vault
Stories From The Vault is a fascinating series hosted by actor Tom Cavanagh. It provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Smithsonian Institution’s vast and diverse collection. First airing in 2007, the series has an impressive IMDb rating of 8.1. Each episode features incredible stories and artifacts, ranging from the Wright brothers’ first airplane to rare fossils from prehistory. The show also delves into themes like wildlife, notable donors, and even secret objects.
Episode 3, Nature’s Vault, explores the natural world in depth. Highlights include Tom Cavanagh tracking sloths, navigating the Panama Canal, and scaling a crane 16 stories high to observe insects in the rainforest canopy. This episode included my photograph of the treed opossum, which offered a unique perspective on wildlife behavior. It underscored the resilience of even the most overlooked creatures and added depth to the episode’s narrative.
Why This Image Matters
The opossum’s ability to thrive in challenging situations is a remarkable example of nature’s resilience. This photograph not only reveals the hidden beauty of an often-underappreciated animal but also demonstrates how photography can uncover the intricate stories within the natural world. This image, featured alongside Smithsonian’s renowned artifacts and tales, gave a rare glimpse into the lives of often-overlooked creatures.