Time and climate have
crafted Owyhee Canyon out of the
high desert rangeland, forming lush corridors in a dry and rocky land.
Travellers and residenst alike seek out the coolness of the canyon
bottom. Here, along the Owyhee Ruver, the canyon is riotous with life.
Nature cast its seeds long ago along watery canyons.
Wildlife of all sizes and orientation need these desert waters.
Event the antagonists among them may peacefully coexist on that
river's edge.
Listen carefully. Many of the creatures along the river will be
hidden in the willows and reeds. You may hear the raucous call
of the acific tree frog, the piping song of a northern oriole or spot the
common flicker hunting for insects.
A red-tailed hawk might glide overhead in search of mice
and other small mammals that live near the river.
A beaver splashes and glides acrss to its lodge. Mule deer may come to drink under the cover of evening shadow a reminder of the
important connection of rivers to the land.
You are here, too, because rivers have an attraction in an arid land
like no other place. Smell the moist air. This cool, watery place is
refreshing through the seasons, providing abundant food
and shelter for land animals, birds, fish and amphibians.
[Picture captions}
Mule deer
Pacific Tree Frog
Beaver
Northern oriole
Common flicker
Don't miss the rest of our virtual tour of Lake Owyhee and Owyhee River Gorge in 697 images.