In March 2009, I captured a memorable moment—a coyote crossing a field at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. This encounter remains one of my favorite wildlife photography experiences, blending luck, preparation, and the beauty of nature.
Spotting the Coyote in Trotter’s Field
It was 10:26 AM when I noticed the coyote strolling through Trotter’s Field, east of the road to Moody Boat Ramp. The light was perfect—soft yet bright. I could see it was heading toward the road, so I parked my pickup where I guessed it might cross. Fortunately, I nailed the spot. The coyote stepped into view, giving me a clear shot.
Camera Gear and Settings
I used my Canon EOS 40D with a Canon EF500mm f/4L IS USM lens, resting on a bean bag over my truck’s open window—a simple but steady setup I’ve relied on for years. My settings were dialed in for the conditions: AV mode, f5.6 aperture, ISO 400, and a 1/1600 sec shutter speed. At 500mm focal length, I captured every detail—crisp and sharp—without disturbing the animal. The fast shutter speed froze its motion perfectly, while the wide aperture softened the background, making the coyote pop against the field. It’s a combination I’d recommend to anyone tackling coyote photography in similar light.
A Healthy Coyote in a Thriving Refuge
This coyote was striking—its coat thick, its body strong. In fact, every coyote I’ve photographed at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge has been in top health. Perhaps it’s the diverse habitat or plentiful food, but these animals thrive here. This one moved with quiet confidence, crossing the road before slipping into the brush.
Why Sequoyah Keeps Me Coming Back
That morning reminded me why I love this refuge. Each visit is a gamble—you never know what you’ll see. In 2009, it was a coyote in its prime, and I was ready. The thrill of anticipating nature’s next move keeps me hooked. Those photos still bring a smile, proof of nature’s unpredictability and my passion for capturing it.