I made two trips to the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma this week. Monday and Thursday brought quieter wildlife sightings than my previous visit. But that’s the nature of Sequoyah NWR wildlife photography. You never know what you’ll find.
Black Vulture Encounter on Monday
Monday’s highlight was a Black Vulture standing in the middle of the road. These scavengers do important work in the ecosystem. They clean up carrion and keep nature balanced.
People often overlook vultures compared to prettier birds. But their presence shows the refuge has a healthy environment. The light hit perfectly. I captured the details of its dark feathers and bare head. These features help the bird with its cleanup job.
Red-winged Blackbird and White-tailed Doe on Thursday
Thursday brought a Red-winged Blackbird with a corn kernel in its beak. The black feathers against the golden corn created a striking contrast. Red-winged Blackbirds are common at the refuge. They perch on reeds and feed in open fields. Getting one with food added a story to the shot.
Early morning revealed a White-tailed Doe in thick brush. She blended into the dried grasses perfectly. This shows how well deer adapt to their surroundings. The soft morning light lit her face. It created a peaceful composition.
The Magic of Early Morning Light
These quiet moments mean the most to me. When an animal feels at ease in its habitat, that’s when Sequoyah NWR wildlife photography shines. The doe’s calm presence reminded me why I love this work.
Reflections on Wildlife Photography at Sequoyah NWR
These two trips had fewer sightings than last Sunday. That’s when I had an amazing encounter with a Bobcat and Deer (you can read about it in my Bobcat and Deer Encounter post). But each visit brings new appreciation for the refuge.
Wildlife photography isn’t about guaranteed encounters. It’s about the experience and patience. It’s about the surprises nature gives you. As I plan my next visit, I wonder what new wildlife waits for me. That’s the thrill of this work.