I found myself capturing a remarkable spectacle of two North American Beavers engaging in a fierce confrontation while immersed in the picturesque surroundings of Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
My expedition led me to the Miner’s Cove section of the refuge, where I stationed myself to observe and document the captivating Beavers. Equipped with my trusty camera and lens, I carefully positioned them on a comfortable bean bag, which rested upon the edge of my pickup’s open window.
Beaver Fighting
The skirmishes between North American Beavers hold significant reasons behind their confrontations. These territorial creatures engage in battles primarily to establish dominance and secure their territory. Beavers are known for their strong instinct to defend their lodge, dams, and surrounding resources from intruders. Clashes often arise when two individuals claim the same area or when one Beaver encroaches upon another’s established territory.
Such territorial disputes can escalate into intense fights as the Beavers fiercely defend their prized domains. Through their battles, they aim to establish hierarchy and ensure the survival of their family unit. These encounters not only determine which Beaver will reign over a specific territory but also play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate ecological balance of their habitat.
During these clashes, deep bites to the flanks, tail, and rump are not uncommon. These injuries serve as visible markers of their struggle for dominance and can have lasting effects on the combatants involved.
Witnessing the intense confrontation between the North American Beavers at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge offered me a rare glimpse into their instinctual drive to protect their homes and secure their livelihoods.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II (attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro)
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: March 9, 2021 (07:41 A. M.)
- Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f5.6
- Shutter speed: 1/140 (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 3200
- Exposure Compensation: 0.0
- Focal Length: 400 mm