Nevada has unique and interesting animals with unique characteristics. There are some highly venomous snakes, which are active in southern Nevada. The various animals that are found in Nevada are mule deer, bighorn sheep, elk, antelope, black bear, beaver, raccoon, brush rabbit, kit fox, mountain lion and many more. There are many amazing birds that have made Nevada as their home. They are the American crow, golden eagle, great horned owl, northern flicker etc.

Spring brings venomous snakes out into the open. Hikers and other outdoor people are advised to be aware of their surroundings and take a few precautions to minimize encounters with snakes. In winter, viewing hawks, eagles and other raptors is a fun family activity. Moopa valley provides a perfect setting for viewing them and can be viewed easily using equipment like binoculars and spotting scopes. The other kinds of birds that can be viewed in this season are waterfowl.

Nevada’s wide open spaces, like the empty grounds provide a great opportunity for hunting. Urban development has created an artificial wildlife friendly environment that is attracting several species of wildlife. On the flip side many of these species invite unwanted predators. Landscaping with trees, shrubs etc., done for urban beautification provide food, shelter and water for several species belonging to Nevada wildlife.

Nevada’s climatic conditions sometimes affect the population growth of animals to quite an extent. Threatened and endangered species serve as a red flag for overall health of the environment. One of the most critical processes threatening wildlife conservation is the conversion of shrubs to annual grasses and other kinds of vegetation.

Nevada has established a department called the “Nevada Department of Wildlife” that protects and restores the wildlife in Nevada. It also ensures safe boating in Nevada waters. Another important organization, which was established as a leading voice for the issues that affect wildlife, is the “Nevada wildlife federation.” Nevada department of wildlife maintains and continuously updates a species management program.

Who knew the “Silver State” could be so much fun? If you haven’t planned a second Nevada vacation because you’ve already been to Las Vegas, it’s time to start packing. There are hundreds of other attractions to tempt the most seasoned tourist. We can’t discuss Nevada vacations without mentioning what’s there for skiers. Lake Tahoe, on the California/Nevada border, boasts world famous ski runs and plenty of other winter sports venues. Up in northeastern Nevada, ski buffs should check out Elko in the Ruby Mountains. This gorgeous area offers year-round mountain sports. Whether you want to spend your time in Nevada hiking, fishing or skiing, you’ll find the perfect spot to do it all. There are lots of other ways to spend your time, though, and here’s information on some of those.

Another great place for families near Lake Mead is Henderson, Nevada. Although it’s moving rapidly toward three hundred thousand residents, careful planning has kept Henderson an attractive, family-friendly place to live and visit. Special attention has been given to creating beautiful outdoor parks and recreation spaces, so plan to spend time exploring the sporting possibilities. Lake Mead, of course, is a marvelous place to play, and having Henderson nearby ensures a multitude of vacation experiences. One more place we simply must mention for families coming to Nevada-its theme parks! From Ultimate Rush & Thrill Park in Reno to GameWorks, AdventureDome and the Stratosphere in Las Vegas, there’s something for adrenaline junkies of all ages. Check their websites for special offers to make the trip even more irresistible, and don’t forget to bring your camera!

If you absolutely love NASCAR racing, there’s no better place to see it live than Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This well-planned track is a favorite among fans, especially those inside the action at the infield RV camp! For more hands-on auto racing fun, book a day with the drivers at racing schools run by Jeff Gordon, Richard Petty and Mario Andretti. Vacationers who prefer the driver in their golf bag should definitely plan a trip around the nationally-ranked courses in Nevada. Of special note are Wolf Creek in Mesquite and Edgewood Golf Course in South Lake Tahoe. Bring your clubs and settle in for a week (or two!) of golfing excitement. There are so many more exciting activities to explore in Nevada! Pick one or two for this trip, then indulge a whole other set of senses on the next vacation. Answer the call of the desert; it’s a wonderland of vacation excitement.