On the morning of May 12, I stood outside my pickup, which was parked in a pull-off parking area along the highway that winds through Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. As the sun rose and lit up the fresh green growth carpeting the meadows, I spotted a lone Coyote moving silently through a herd of resting Bison.
Observing the Coyote’s Intent
The Coyote showed no signs of aggression or urgency. It moved with quiet purpose, likely searching for small rodents or grasshoppers stirred up by the grazing giants. This behavior is not uncommon. I’ve photographed a similar scene of a Coyote feeding on grasshoppers in the Wichita Mountains before. Coyotes often take advantage of large grazers like Bison to flush out insects and prey hidden in the grass.
The Calm Confidence of the Bison
What struck me most was how undisturbed the Bison remained. Many were still bedded down, even with calves scattered among them. Their sheer size and the protection offered by the herd gave them confidence. They watched the Coyote but didn’t react. This calm coexistence was a perfect example of how prairie animals read each other’s body language and intent.
Sharing the Prairie
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is one of the few places where you can witness such interactions up close. Wide open meadows attract both predators and prey, creating a natural balance. The Coyote didn’t challenge that balance, and the Bison didn’t see it as a threat. Instead, each moved with the understanding that the other belonged there too.
This peaceful moment reminded me how much there is to learn simply by watching. It was a privilege to witness this silent negotiation of space and presence between two icons of the prairie.
FAQ
What was the Coyote doing near the Bison?
It was likely searching for rodents or insects stirred up by the Bison, not hunting calves.
Why didn’t the Bison react aggressively?
Bison are large and travel in herds, so they likely didn’t feel threatened by the lone Coyote.
Is this behavior common in the wild?
Yes, in prairie ecosystems, predators and grazers often share space without conflict when neither poses an immediate threat.
Where did this happen?
This encounter took place at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in southwestern Oklahoma.
Can visitors easily see this kind of interaction?
Yes, if you’re patient and observant, the refuge offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and observation.
These pics of the lone Coyote amongst the Bison are remarkable. So much to learned from these photos. Awesome!
Thank you, Justin!