Date: 04/08/09
Contact: C. Douglas Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127, ext. 3500

WILDLIFE VIEWING EVENT

Spring is the time to view wildlife and to help people enjoy that opportunity the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) is sponsoring a Wildlife Watch Sat. April 18, 2009. The free wildlife viewing event will take place at the Overton Wildlife Management Area from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.

Overton WMA is located an hour drive north of Las Vegas and is one of eleven such areas in the state. Operated by NDOW, the Overton WMA boasts a number of ponds where viewers can see many species of water birds such as avocets, stilts and swans. Because of the management area’s proximity to Lake Mead, viewers also can see raptors such as golden eagles and ospreys. Agricultural fields on the WMA attract both birds and terrestrial animals by providing a food source. Reptiles, small mammals, and turkeys are a common sight for visitors.

The Wildlife Watch will consist of a guided hike through the management area. Participants will receive a photographic reference to commonly sighted species as well as some wildlife-watching tips. Hikers will also learn about animal tracks and other signs of animal presence. The Watch is suitable for adults and children. Sorry, no pets.

Overton Wildlife Management Area is at 1000 Waterfowl Road., off Moapa Valley Boulevard at the east end of the town of Overton. It can be reached by taking I-15 north from Las Vegas to Highway 169 east or by Highway 169 north from the Valley of Fire or Lake Mead. The Wildlife Watch is part of National Environmental Education Week. For more information call Margie Klein at 702-486-5127 x 3502.

Those who are interested in learning more about Nevada’s wildlife management areas find brochures online at www.ndow.org/about/pubs/.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a Federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.