As a wildlife photographer, capturing the beauty and uniqueness of each animal is always a thrilling experience. And so it was when I came across a group of Whitetail Does feeding in a field, only to discover one of them with an unusual growth on its jaw line.
I have come across similar sightings in the past, with my previous encounter dating back to 2009. I captured both instances at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
Upon further research, I discovered that the growths are a common occurrence known as Fibromatosis, a skin disease in Whitetail Deer. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but it could be the result of transmission through biting insects or contaminated vegetation.
Fibromatosis is a skin disease that is common among Whitetail Deer, but it is not well understood by the scientific community. This condition is characterized by the presence of fibrous tumors or growths on the deer’s skin, which can be found on various parts of their bodies, including the jawline, neck, and legs. Although these growths are usually benign and do not pose a significant threat to the deer’s health, they can affect their appearance and make them stand out in the herd.
In conclusion, Fibromatosis in Whitetail Deer is a fascinating topic for wildlife photographers and researchers alike. By capturing and studying these unique occurrences, we can gain a deeper understanding of this condition and contribute to the knowledge and conservation of these magnificent creatures.
Getting the perfect shot wasn’t an easy task, as I had to be in the right place at the right time. I was driving west through the 4-corners intersection when I spotted the Doe in my first photo, who was leisurely grazing on the side of the road. I quickly pulled over and captured the moment from the open window of my pickup truck, using my Fujifilm X-T3 camera and Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro.
Camera Settings
- AV Mode
- Aperture f7.1
- ISO 800
- Shutter speed – 1/1700
- Focal Length – 400 mm
On the second photo I was hand holding a Canon EOS – 1D Mark 3 with a Canon EF 500 mm f4L IS USM Lens.
- AV Mode
- Aperture f/5.6
- ISO 800
- Shutter Speed 1/2000
- Focal Length – 500 mm
Here are a few more Deer I photographed this month: