Sunrise Wildlife Encounters at Lake Carl Etling
Sunrise at Lake Carl Etling brought unexpected wildlife encounters—Mule Deer, a mysterious hummingbird, and a Cooper’s Hawk under attack by Barn Swallows.
Oklahoma
Discovering a Hidden Sheepherder Hut at Lake Carl Etling
Uncovering a hidden Sheepherder Hut at Lake Carl Etling, Black Mesa State Park—an unexpected glimpse into the past, where sheep herders once sheltered.
Mule Deer Doe Enjoys Prickly Pear Cactus at Black Mesa
I observed a Mule Deer Doe eating prickly pear cactus near Lake Carl Etling. Learn how these cacti become a valuable food source for mule deer in arid environments.
Red-headed Woodpecker’s Clever Grasshopper Cache
Spotted a Red-headed Woodpecker caching a grasshopper on a utility pole near Black Mesa Wildlife Preserve. Learn about their clever food storage strategies!
An Evening with a Mule Deer Doe and Her Fawn at Lake Carl Etling
Witnessed a special moment as a Mule Deer Doe and her Fawn wade across Lake Carl Etling at Black Mesa State Park during an evening wildlife photography session.
Day 8: A Morning with a Roman-Nosed Mule Deer Doe
A peaceful morning at Lake Carl Etling leads to a special encounter with a Roman-nosed Mule Deer Doe, showcasing the quiet beauty of Black Mesa State Park.
Day 7: A Remarkable Encounter with Bighorn Sheep at Black Mesa
Thrilled to encounter Bighorn Sheep on Day 7 at Black Mesa! Discover their unique history in Oklahoma and the importance of preserving their fragile habitat.
Day 7: Strange Behavior from a Mule Deer Buck
A Mule Deer buck’s strange behavior caught my attention on Day 7 at Black Mesa State Park. Despite no luck with Bighorn Sheep, the morning was still great.
Day 6, Part 2: Evening Wildlife Drive at Black Mesa State Park
Evening wildlife surprises on Day 6 at Black Mesa State Park, including a close encounter with a curious young Pronghorn and a Mule Deer Doe with twin fawns.
Day 6: Labor Day Weekend Begins at Black Mesa State Park
Labor Day weekend brings crowds to Black Mesa State Park, but I found a quiet spot by Lake Carl Etling for wildlife photography.
Day 5, Part 2: An Unexpected Delay on My Way to Wedding Cake Butte
Photographed twin Mule Deer fawns near Black Mesa Nature Preserve after a quick detour on Day 5 of my wildlife photography adventure. A delightful encounter!
Day 4: Exploring Bird Haven Trail at Black Mesa State Park
Exploring Bird Haven Trail at Black Mesa State Park, I photographed a Canyon Towhee, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Bald Eagle, and spotted a young Great Horned Owl.
Excitement at Black Mesa State Park: A Garter Snake and a Toad
A garter snake and a large toad caused a stir at my Black Mesa campsite. Learn about their encounter and the fascinating feeding habits of garter snakes.
Day 3: Exploring the Roads Less Traveled at Black Mesa State Park
Exploring the scenic roads near Black Mesa State Park, I photographed a White-tailed Doe and her Fawn, a box turtle, and a vibrant Colorado Soldier Beetle.
Birds of Day 2 at Black Mesa State Park
New bird sightings at Black Mesa: Scaled Quail, Canyon Towhee, Lark Buntings, and the challenging but rewarding Common Nighthawk in flight.