A Serene Morning Encounter
While driving along the auto tour road at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma on a cool, clear morning, I spotted a white-tailed buck standing in Dockery Field. Its surroundings were bathed in soft, early sunlight, highlighting its poised stance as it prepared to cross the road into Goss Field. To capture the moment, I stopped my truck, stepped out quietly, and used the open door as a partial blind. This technique helped obscure my presence while providing a stable position to frame the shot. The setup worked perfectly, allowing me to photograph the buck without disturbing its natural behavior. The result is this image of the buck standing confidently in its habitat.
The Seasonal Shedding of Antlers
This encounter occurred on March 2nd, a time of year when many bucks begin shedding their antlers. By now, several bucks in the area have likely already shed, as this process typically happens between late winter and early spring. During this visit, I observed three bucks at Sequoyah still holding onto their antlers, including this one. Witnessing this seasonal transition is always fascinating, especially when noting the timing variations among individual deer.
The Privilege of Wildlife Observation
Being able to observe wildlife up close in their natural habitat is a privilege. Moments like this remind me of the beauty and resilience of the natural world, especially in watching this buck confidently navigate its surroundings during a significant seasonal change. Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for experiences like these, offering countless opportunities to connect with nature.
I’m already looking forward to my next visit to Sequoyah, eager to see what new wonders will unfold and ready to capture them through the lens.