This Coyote Slinking by my pickup gave me a close look at a cautious animal. I photographed it during a morning visit to Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
I had seen this coyote cross the auto tour road before. It usually kept its distance, but this time it passed in front of me.
Coyote Slinking By the Auto Tour Road
I had noticed this coyote in the same general area on several mornings. It seemed to use the auto tour road as part of its regular route.
Most of the time, it would go around my pickup from a safe distance. That changed on this morning.
The coyote came closer than usual and moved in front of my vehicle. Its posture stayed low and careful, which fit the way it had acted on earlier visits.
One thing stood out to me right away. This coyote looked thinner than others I have photographed at the refuge. I suspect it may have been a young coyote, but I cannot say that for sure.
Its narrow frame, cautious movement, and direct glance made the moment feel personal. It was not a long encounter, but it was enough.
Photographing This Coyote From My Pickup
I parked where I expected the coyote to cross. Then I waited and stayed still.
When it noticed me, it paused and settled down for a moment. I did not move around or try to force the shot.
That patience helped. No other vehicles came through at the wrong time, so the scene stayed quiet.
I photographed from my pickup with the lens resting on a bean bag over the open window. That setup gave me a steady platform without stepping out and adding pressure to the animal.
Camera settings:
- Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Canon EF 500 mm f/4L IS USM
- AV Mode
- Aperture: f/5.6
- ISO: 2500
- Shutter speed: 1/220 sec.
- Exposure Compensation: +0.33 EV
- Focal length: 500 mm
Why This Oklahoma Coyote Encounter Stayed With Me
Some wildlife photos happen because everything lines up for a few seconds. This was one of those times.
The coyote followed a pattern I had noticed before. I chose a quiet spot, waited, and let the animal make the next move.
That is what I enjoy most about photographing wildlife. The best moments often come when I slow down and pay attention.
For more coyote encounters from this refuge, see Coyote Searching For Meal At Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, Coyote At Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, and Glance From A Coyote.