As a wildlife photographer, there are moments when nature surprises you with an extraordinary encounter that leaves you in awe. On that day, I had the privilege of witnessing and capturing a truly remarkable event during my visit to the Sally Jones Causeway at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. This is the story of my encounter with a Yellow-billed Cuckoo, a species known for its elusive nature, and the unexpected turn of events that unfolded before my lens.
The Unexpected Arrival:
Parked on the side of the road, my attention was initially drawn to a group of turtles leisurely perched on a log in the nearby water. Little did I know that I was about to witness a breathtaking moment. Suddenly, a flash of feathers caught my eye as a Yellow-billed Cuckoo gracefully landed on a branch next to my parked vehicle. I couldn’t believe my luck! These elusive birds are notoriously difficult to photograph due to their inclination to hide within the foliage of trees.
A Surprising Turn of Events:
Just as I thought the encounter couldn’t get any more extraordinary, an unexpected visitor appeared. A male Yellow-billed Cuckoo approached the female and hopped onto her back, initiating a mating ritual right before my eyes. It was an enchanting display of nature’s wonders, reminding me of the intricate rituals and bonds that exist within the avian world.
The Gift of a Dragonfly:
To my surprise, the male cuckoo had come prepared, presenting the female with a gift before getting on her back. Clutched in her beak was a dragonfly. The symbolic gesture showcased the male’s desire to impress his mate, further accentuating the uniqueness of the moment I had the privilege of documenting.
A Captured Moment in Time:
As a wildlife photographer, it’s often said that being in the right place at the right time is crucial. On that day, I found myself in the perfect position to witness this rare and intimate moment in the lives of these Yellow-billed Cuckoos. The series of photographs I managed to capture tell a captivating story—a tale of beauty and the unpredictable nature of the wild.
Final Thoughts:
Moments like these remind me of the sheer wonder that lies within the natural world. Witnessing the hidden intricacies of bird behavior and capturing them through the lens of my camera is a privilege I treasure. The Sally Jones Causeway and the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge provided the perfect backdrop for this enchanting encounter, emphasizing the importance of preserving and protecting these habitats.
The encounter with the Yellow-billed Cuckoo will forever hold a special place in my heart and in my portfolio. It serves as a reminder that, as wildlife photographers, we have the incredible opportunity to bring these extraordinary moments to light and inspire others to appreciate and conserve the beauty that surrounds us.
Equipment Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical Details: Last Photo
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: June 5, 2023 (09:20 A. M.)
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/800
- ISO: 500 (Auto)
- Exp. Comp.: +1.0
- Focal Length: 500 mm
Glad you were there to be able to both see and share the experience!
Fantastic photos and narrative, Steve!