Just a few days ago, I ventured out to Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, hoping to capture some stunning wildlife photography. What I got was a unique challenge – a Barred Owl perched deep in the timber, shrouded in a thick morning fog. The atmosphere was almost magical, with the swirling fog creating an air of mystery. However, for photography, it wasn’t ideal. The low light levels made it difficult to get a clear shot. Still, determined to capture this magnificent owl, I settled in and waited patiently.
For over an hour, I remained vigilant, camera at the ready, hoping for a break in the fog. Finally, as if on cue, the mist began to lift, revealing the Barred Owl in all its glory. It was perched on a branch back in the timber, on the west side of the road, on the S-curve of the auto-tour route (west of the 4-corners intersection). While the shot wasn’t ideal due to the owl’s distance and the remaining low light, the experience itself was incredible. The owl’s piercing eyes seemed to stare right through the fog, its presence a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature.
This encounter served as a valuable lesson in patience and persistence. It also left me eager to return. Luckily, my determination paid off! If you’d like to see a closer look at this Barred Owl, check out my next post: “Barred Owl Returns for a Close-Up!”