Deer Crossing Reeve’s Slough at Sequoyah NWR

I photographed deer crossing Reeve’s Slough in the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. It was a calm November morning in 2021 when I pulled into the parking area and heard splashing in the distance. A small group of deer was getting ready to cross the slough. Two does stepped into the open long enough for me to capture this moment as they moved through the shallow water.

This stretch of the slough has become a regular crossing point. I have watched deer use this same route many times. The water is shallow, and the vegetation gives them cover as they make their way across. I have also photographed more dramatic crossings here, including a buck running through the water in the same area. You can see that moment here: Whitetail Buck Running Through Water

Wildlife Notes: Deer Crossing Reeve’s Slough

White-tailed deer move through water far more often than most people realize. Does and bucks use sloughs, creeks, and flooded edges as travel corridors. Water helps hide their scent and reduces the noise of their movement. I have watched deer swim across much deeper water in other parts of this refuge. These crossings are part of their daily routine as they move between bedding areas and feeding spots.

Photography Notes: Capturing Deer in Wetland Habitat

Reeve’s Slough can be a rewarding place to photograph deer. The light reflects off the water and creates warm color in the scene. The vegetation shifts through seasons, giving each visit a different look. I try to stay parked and quiet in this area because the deer use the edges for cover. If I wait long enough, I often catch them stepping into the open for just a moment. This photo came from one of those moments when everything lined up.

I look forward to spending more time at Sequoyah and seeing what new encounters unfold. This refuge offers something different every visit.

Image Information:

• Date: 11/28/21
• Time: 8:43 AM
• Camera: Canon EOS R5
• Lens: Canon RF 800 mm
• ISO: 2000
• Aperture: 11 (Fixed)
• Shutter: 1/1600
• Exp. Comp.: 0
• Lens (mm): 800
• Program Mode: Manual