Although the desert bighorn sheep holds the Nevada State Animal crown upon its curved horns, there’s another great critter out here that we consider a just-as-deserving Silver State symbol: the one-and-only wild burro. Numerous locations in Nevada are home to thousands of these resilient equine who wander freely, including an entire town. The Burro plays significant role in our extensive mining history.

The pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) is a species of artiodactyl (even-toed, hoofed) mammal indigenous to interior western and central North America. Though not an antelope, it is known colloquially in North America as the American antelope, prong buck, pronghorn antelope and prairie antelope, because it closely resembles the antelopes of the Old World and fills a similar ecological niche due to parallel evolution. It is the only surviving member of the family Antilocapridae.

Feral horses live in groups called a herd, band, harem, or mob. Feral horse herds, like those of wild horses, are usually made up of small harems led by a dominant mare, containing additional mares, their foals, and immature horses of both sexes. There is usually one herd stallion, though occasionally a few less-dominant males may remain with the group.

Roadrunners, specifically the Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus), are common in Nevada, particularly in the southern and desert regions. They are well-adapted to arid environments and can be found in areas with scrub vegetation, including grasslands and canyon habitats. While they are known for their speed and ability to run, they can also fly short distances. 

Goldfield, Nevada, situated within the Great Basin, experiences the phenomenon of bird migration, particularly during the spring and fall months. While information specific to Goldfield can be limited, nearby locations offer a glimpse into the diverse migratory bird species that may be observed in the area.  

Some species that are known to migrate through the region and might be seen in or near Goldfield include:

Sandhill Cranes, Ducks and Geese (various species), Northern Harriers, Mountain Bluebirds, Yellow Warblers, Black-necked Stilts, , American Avocets, Northern Shovelers, American Wigeons, Cinnamon Teals, and Gadwalls 

Desert Cottontails are common and widespread throughout Nevada. Their round tail is dark on top with a white underside, resembling a cotton ball. To avoid overheating in the desert, Cottontails tend to be more active at night. They are light colored to minimize absorption of solar heat and have large ears to help radiate body heat into the air.