Many of us wonder how much longer the Snow Geese will stay at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. The unseasonably warm temperatures in early February have created an interesting situation. Some days have even reached 70 degrees.
Wildlife Notes
The refuge has an abundance of standing corn this year. This food source is a major magnet for the geese. Large flocks have spent the past few weeks enjoying these fields. This follows the delayed arrival of Snow Geese we saw earlier in the season.
Typically, the departure of Snow Geese depends on the changing seasons and food availability. As winter turns to spring, their instinct tells them to head north. They migrate to breeding grounds in the tundra regions of Canada and Alaska. This journey helps them find nesting sites and food for their young.
However, the unusual warmth and plentiful corn might change things. It is possible that some geese will delay their departure. They may stay longer to enjoy the comfortable conditions and easy food.
Image Information (First Image):
- Date: 02/06/24
- Time: 9:10 AM
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
- ISO: 800
- Aperture: 9
- Shutter: 1/3200
- Exp. Comp.:+0.7
- Lens (mm): 500
- Program Mode: Manual
It is always a treat to see these geese at Sequoyah. Whether they leave tomorrow or stay for weeks, the spectacle is worth the trip. I will continue to monitor the fields to see how long they linger.