Home to more than 1,500 species—from spring snails, to big horn sheep, to mountain lions—the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) has an extensive wildlife population. NNSS biologists track and study several of these species, for a variety of reasons.
Most recently, the NNSS teamed up with the U.S. Geological Survey and Nevada Department of Wildlife to study the Site’s pronghorn antelope and mule deer populations. NNSS Principal Scientist Derek Hall guesses there may be up to 800 mule deer living in the hills, mountains and mesas. As for antelope, up to 50 of them roam the Site’s open valleys and flat areas.
While hunting isn’t allowed on NNSS property, these animals can travel offsite. Studying them closely can yield more data on their migration and movements, and their role in the hunter/food chain. For the full story, please enjoy this short NNSS-produced documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYmK-rDXbzc.