The J. T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve is a 17,000-acre preserve located near Tahlequah, Oklahoma. This privately owned preserve is managed by the Oklahoma Nature Conservancy and was founded in 2000, thanks to a generous land gift from the John Nickel family. The preserve consists of forests and grasslands, making it an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife.

J. T. Nickel Family Nature Wildlife Preserve Oklahoma
J. T. Nickel Family Nature Wildlife Preserve – Oklahoma
J T Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve Oklahoma
J T Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve – Oklahoma
J T Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve Oklahoma
J T Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve – Oklahoma

One of the highlights of the preserve is the opportunity to see Elk and Whitetail Deer. In addition to these species, the preserve is also home to Black Bears, making it a must-visit location for wildlife enthusiasts.

During my recent trip to the preserve on March 7, 2020, I had the opportunity to see over 20 Whitetail Deer near the office. While I didn’t spot any of the other wildlife the preserve is known for, the abundance of deer was a delight to see.

I also noticed that the preserve was conducting a prescribed burn in some parts of the area. These controlled burns are a vital part of the management of the preserve, helping to maintain the health of the grasslands and promote new growth.

The J. T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve is a stunning location for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. The diverse habitat and abundance of wildlife make it an excellent destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. I look forward to my next visit, in hopes of seeing even more of the incredible wildlife that calls this preserve home.

How I Got The Shot:

The last two photos were made with my iPhone. The first photo I made with a Fujifilm X-T3 camera and a Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens that was attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro. I was standing outside my pickup with the camera and lens braced against the door frame.

Camera Settings

  • AV Mode
  • Aperture f5.6
  • ISO 800
  • Shutter speed – 1/180 sec.
  • – 1.0 Exposure Compensation
  • Focal Length: 100 mm

More Photos from the J. T. Nickel Family Nature Wildlife Preserve :

  1. This Whitetail Buck Has Shed Both Antlers
  2. Doe At J. T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve
  3. Whitetail Doe Feeding On Ridge