Muskrat at Phillip Parks Memorial Fishing Pier

Back in May, I had a remarkable experience at one of my favorite spots in the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma – the Phillip Parks Memorial Fishing Pier. This visit reinforced why this location has become such a treasured destination for me as a wildlife photographer.

The day began with an unexpected encounter. As I approached the pier, I noticed movement and rustling among the lotus plants. Quietly investigating, I discovered the source – a muskrat navigating through the aquatic vegetation.

Muskrat Feeding On Aquatic Vegetation
Muskrat Feeding On Aquatic Vegetation

While I’ve photographed muskrats before, this was my first time spotting one at this particular location. I observed with fascination as the creature moved gracefully around the pier, pausing occasionally to feed on the aquatic plants. This scene provided an excellent opportunity to capture some memorable shots, and I’m excited to share my favorite photos from this encounter.

Muskrat Feeding
Muskrat Feeding

The muskrat sighting was just the beginning of an eventful visit. Shortly after, I came across an American Tree Frog, which I documented in a separate blog post. The diversity of wildlife I encountered at this pier in such a short span of time was truly remarkable.

These experiences solidified why the Phillip Parks Memorial Fishing Pier is one of my favorite spots in the refuge. Its ability to consistently offer unique wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities is unparalleled. Whether it’s muskrats, frogs, or other creatures, there’s always something exciting to discover and capture through my lens.

As a wildlife photographer, finding locations that reliably provide such diverse subjects is invaluable. The Phillip Parks Memorial Fishing Pier at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge has proven to be a goldmine for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Reflecting on this day from May, I’m reminded of the magic this spot holds and I’m eager for my next visit, wondering what new surprises await me at this special location.