As the weather begins to warm up and springtime arrives, many people start looking for outdoor activities to enjoy. For those who love spending time on the water, kayaking is a fantastic way to get outside and experience nature. In this blog post, we'll be talking about some of the wildlife you might see during a spring kayaking trip, particularly if you're kayaking in the Las Vegas Lake Mead area.

Wildlife You Can Spot in Lake Mead 

Las Vegas is known for its exciting nightlife and Vegas excursions, but there's also a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities in the area. One of the most popular outdoor activities is kayaking, and Las Vegas Lake Mead is a particularly popular destination for kayakers. This stunning lake is located just a short drive from the Vegas strip, making it an easy day trip for visitors and locals alike.

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As you paddle around Lake Mead, you're likely to encounter a variety of wildlife. Some of the animals you might see include:

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Desert Bighorn Sheep

These impressive creatures are the state animal of Nevada and are commonly found throughout the desert regions of the American Southwest. While they may be difficult to spot from a distance, they're known to come down to the water's edge for a drink, so keep an eye out!

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Bald Eagles

Bald eagles are a symbol of American freedom and are a common sight at Lake Mead. These majestic birds of prey can often be seen perched high in the trees, watching over the lake and its inhabitants.

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Coyotes

Throughout the Southwest, coyotes are common and their howls are distinctive. While they may be a little intimidating, they're generally not a threat to humans and can be fascinating to observe from a safe distance.

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Gila Monsters

Gila monsters are a type of venomous lizard that are found in the Southwest. While they may be a little scary to encounter, they're not aggressive toward humans and are actually quite slow-moving.

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Burros

Burros, or wild donkeys, are another common sight at Lake Mead. These animals were originally brought to the area by miners and have since become a permanent fixture of the desert landscape.

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Waterfowl

Of course, no trip to Lake Mead would be complete without seeing some of the lake's resident waterfowl. From ducks and geese to herons and egrets, there's always something to see on the water.

Tips for Observing Wildlife on a Kayak Tour

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It's important to remember that while these animals are fascinating to observe, it's important to keep a safe distance and not disturb them. Wildlife should always be observed from a distance, and kayakers should avoid getting too close or approaching animals too quickly. Additionally, it's important to practice Leave No Trace principles while kayaking, which means packing out all trash and avoiding disturbing natural habitats.

Observing wildlife on a kayak tour can be an incredible experience. However, it's important to remember that we're entering the animals' natural habitat, and it's important to minimize our impact on the environment. Here are some tips for observing wildlife on a kayak tour:

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Keep your distance

It's important to give wildlife plenty of space. You should maintain a distance of at least 100 feet from any animals you encounter. This will ensure that you don't disturb them, and it will also keep you safe.

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Use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens

If you want to get a closer look at an animal, use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. This will allow you to see the animal without getting too close.

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Stay quiet and still

When you approach an animal, do so quietly and slowly. Any sudden movements or loud noises can startle the animal, causing them to flee or become aggressive.

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Be aware of your surroundings

Always be mindful of your surroundings. Watch for signs of animal activity, such as tracks, scat, or feeding areas. This will help you know where to look for wildlife and avoid disturbing them.

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Follow Leave No Trace principles

Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, which means not leaving any trash or disturbing natural habitats. This will help protect the animals and their environment for future generations to enjoy.

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Observing wildlife on a kayak tour can be a magical experience, but it's important to be respectful and mindful of the animals and their environment. By following these tips, you can safely observe wildlife and leave no trace of your visit.

Spring Time Flowers in Bloom

In addition to wildlife, kayakers at Lake Mead may also encounter some unique geological features. The lake is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, and paddlers can explore coves and canyons that are only accessible by water. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the desert blooms with wildflowers and the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activity.

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Desert flowers are a stunning sight to behold, and Lake Mead is no exception. While the desert landscape may seem barren and lifeless, it's actually home to a variety of plant life that thrives in arid conditions. Here are some of the desert flowers that bloom near Lake Mead during the springtime:

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Desert Marigold

The desert marigold is a bright and cheery flower that blooms in early spring. Its yellow petals stand out against the brown and green of the desert landscape, and it's a common sight along hiking trails and on the banks of Lake Mead.

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Joshua Tree

The Joshua tree is an iconic desert plant that blooms in the springtime. Its white flowers are small and bell-shaped, and they bloom at the end of the tree's long, spiky branches.

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Desert Willow

The desert willow is a small tree that blooms in late spring. Its pink and purple flowers are trumpet-shaped and have a sweet fragrance.

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Beavertail Cactus

The beavertail cactus is a common sight in the desert around Lake Mead. Its pink and red flowers bloom in the spring and attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

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A spring kayaking trip to Lake Mead can be a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the American Southwest. While paddling along the lake's calm waters, keep an eye out for the various wildlife that call this area home. Whether you're looking for a fun outdoor activity or just a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a kayaking trip to Lake Mead is sure to provide a memorable and rewarding experience.

Want to experience the beauty of the Las Vegas desert wildlife during one of the most beautiful times of the year? Book a kayak tour with Evolution Expeditions and experience the enriching desert sights for yourself! Contact us to learn more about how you can enhance your springtime outdoor activities.  

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