As a wildlife enthusiast and photographer, there’s something magical about witnessing nature’s patterns unfold before your eyes. Recently, I experienced a remarkable moment of déjà vu that reminded me of the beautiful cyclical nature of wildlife.
On June 13, 2024, I found myself embarking on my usual early morning drive along the auto tour road at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. As the sun began to peek over the horizon, painting the sky in soft hues, I spotted a familiar sight that instantly transported me back in time.
A baby coyote, with its curious eyes and cautious gait, was meandering down the road. As my truck approached, the little creature darted into the nearby cornfield, seeking refuge among the tall stalks. This scene was uncannily similar to an encounter I had experienced exactly three years and eight days prior, on June 21, 2021, in the very same location (Baby Coyote).
Excited by this serendipitous moment, I decided to park my truck on the roadside and wait patiently. My persistence paid off when, moments later, the inquisitive pup re-emerged onto the road, allowing me to capture several photographs of its youthful charm.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing numerous coyote pups at this refuge. However, this particular sighting felt special due to its striking similarity to my experience in 2021. The only thing that could have made it more extraordinary would have been if it had occurred on the exact same date!
Since this encounter, I’ve returned to the refuge multiple times, hoping for another glimpse of the young coyote. While I haven’t been fortunate enough to spot it again, I’ve learned that two other photographers have seen it, with one even reporting sightings of two pups together in the same area.
These recurring sightings serve as a beautiful reminder of the consistent rhythms of nature. They highlight the importance of protected areas like Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in providing safe havens for wildlife to thrive and carry on their lifecycles year after year.
As wildlife photographers and nature lovers, we are privileged to witness these cycles and capture fleeting moments of natural beauty. It’s experiences like these that fuel our passion and remind us of the importance of conservation efforts to ensure future generations can enjoy similar encounters.
So, the next time you find yourself in a familiar natural setting, keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready. You never know when nature might treat you to a delightful moment of déjà vu, connecting you to your past experiences and the enduring wonders of the wild.
What a cutie and such a great experience!