b'MammalsMammals are warm-blooded animals with hair or fur and can self-regulate their body temperature, which comes in handy in the dry desert climate of Nevada. In our State, many mam-mals have adapted to withstand the high temperatures and dry conditions of the desert, while others, such are American black bears, raccoons and beavers reside near Pyramid Lake and Lake Tahoe. Mammals found in the mountain regions include foxes, coyotes, bob cats and mountain lions. Wild horses and donkeys are commonly seen throughout the State. As the official animal of the State of Nevada, the desert bighorn sheep population continues to grow, using their keen eyesight to avoid other mammal predators like mountain lions. ReptilesThese cold-blooded creatures typically lay eggs and have an outer covering, like scales or a shell. Nevada reptiles include desert tor-toises, geckos, Gila monsters and snakes. Nevada is home to a variety of harmless and venomous species of snakes. From garter snakes and rat snakes, to rattle snakes, such as the sidewinder and copperheads, snakes enjoy the low mountain or open desert landscapes. The most mysterious of reptiles, the banded Gila monster, is a venomous lizard eas-ily identifiable by its distinctive coloring and descriptive beaded looking features. Gila monsters are primarily Southern Nevada desert creatures, found crawling and digging with short, wide-set legs and curved claws. Did you know the Gila monster is the largest lizard native to the United States? Different from oth-er lizards, Gila monsters are slow and spend most of their lives beneath the ground surface.BirdsIn Nevada, there are nearly 500 species of birds, or avifauna, between the northern and southern regions of the State. Our State bird, the mountain bluebird, is one of the most breath-taking, vibrant-colored birds found in Nevada. Other species of birds include bald eagles, falcons and different hawks, owls and quail. Are you an avid bird watcher? Install a bird feeder in your backyard and observe the many beautiful birds making Nevada home. Unique types of birds, such as the great horned As you immerse yourself in the beautiful natural Nevada landscapes, you may run into some desert creatures, camouflaged into the scenery. Look closely to see different spiders, scorpions, lizards and snakes. As the desert terrain transitions to mountains and forests, numerous species of mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, arachnids and fish make Ne-vada their home.43'