Biology

The Las Vegas Wash is a unique ecosystem in Southern Nevada. Rarely would you expect to find an oasis of water, wildlife and vegetation on the floor of a desert valley, but that is precisely what exists here.

The name given to our valley, Las Vegas, is Spanish for "the meadows". The naturally occurring springs and artesian wells in the center of the valley are what made it possible for Las Vegas' first residents to settle here. In addition to the serving as a gathering place for people, a multitude of plants and animals also can be found in the area.

Yuma Clapper Rail

More than 300 species of amphibians, birds, mammals, reptiles and fishes inhabit the variety of wetland, riparian and upland habitats. With more than 200 species of birds, the Wash also provides potential habitat to sensitive species such as the Yuma clapper rail and Southwestern willow flycatcher. Some of the other species of animals that can be found in the Wash include the sidewinder, desert iguana, green sunfish, desert pocket mouse, hoary bat, Yuma myotis and woodhouse's toad.

In addition to the fish and wildlife, the plant communities in the Wash also are very diverse. Native species include creosote, fourwing saltbush, desert willow, honey and screwbean mesquite, cottonwood, sandbar willow and three-square bulrush. While the native species are beneficial for the ecosystem there are also nonnative invasive species such as tamarisk and tall whitetop in the Wash that negatively affect the environment.

The Las Vegas Wash Coordination Committee is working hard to help protect and enhance the Las Vegas Wash ecosystem and there are many studies underway to monitor the plants and animals in the Wash. For more information on these activities go the What is Being Done section of our website.