While out on a nature walk in the Upper Scarborough area of the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, I had a serendipitous wildlife photography moment. As I was walking along a field edge, I noticed a raccoon ambling in the same direction ahead of me on the road. When it got closer and noticed my presence, it struck a perfect pose – standing up on its hind legs with one front paw resting on a branch hanging down.
The raccoon held this stance for a few seconds as I quickly grabbed my camera and snapped some photos. The morning light was perfect to capture the details of the raccoon’s fur and facial features. I love when I’m able to get low angle shots like this one to portray the animal at eye level.
Raccoons are extremely adaptable mammals that can thrive in both rural and urban environments. While they have a reputation as pests at times, I’m always impressed by their intelligence, curiosity and dexterous front paws. Being able to observe them in their natural habitat and highlight their unique behaviors through photography is a rewarding experience.
Moments like this are a special part of what makes wildlife photography so meaningful to me. You never know when you’ll have a close encounter with amazing animals to document. I feel grateful to have captured this charismatic raccoon’s personality and stunning pose to share with others who appreciate America’s native wildlife. Just another memorable day in the field!
Steve Creek, Wildlife Photographer