Tag: Nevada

Nevada, often referred to as the “Silver State,” is located in the western United States. Renowned for its vast deserts and striking mountain ranges, the state boasts a diverse landscape that includes the arid Mojave Desert in the south and the forested Sierra Nevada mountains in the west. The state is famously home to Las Vegas, a vibrant city known for its bustling casinos, entertainment venues, and nightlife. Beyond the glitz of Las Vegas, Nevada offers rich history in its ghost towns, a legacy of the 19th-century mining boom. The state also features significant natural attractions, such as Lake Tahoe and Great Basin National Park, offering a wide range of outdoor activities. Nevada’s economy is driven by tourism, mining, and, increasingly, technology, making it a dynamic state with a blend of natural beauty and modern attractions.

Pershing County – Nevada State Historic Marker 17

Posted on by
Perching County, Nevada
Perching County, Nevada

Pershing County, located in north-central Nevada, is a rural county with a population of approximately 6,192 as of 2025, making it the 11th largest county in the state. Covering 6,067 square miles, it is characterized by vast open spaces, with 6,037 square miles of land and only 0.5% water. The county seat is Lovelock, named after early settler George Lovelock, and the county itself is named for General John J. Pershing, a World War I hero. Established on March 18, 1919, as Nevada’s last county, it was carved from Humboldt County.

The county’s landscape includes the prominent Star Peak, the tallest mountain at 9,840 feet, and part of the Black Rock Desert, famous for hosting the Burning Man festival. Historically, Pershing County was a key stop on the Humboldt Trail, known as Big Meadows, where 19th-century emigrants rested before crossing the Forty Mile Desert. Mining, dating back to the 1850s, and cattle ranching remain economic staples, with modern agriculture focusing on alfalfa and wheat production.

Demographically, the 2020 census reported a racial makeup of 77.69% White, 5.35% Black, 3.42% Native American, 0.63% Asian, 0.22% Pacific Islander, 9.38% other races, and 3.30% multiracial, with 19.33% of residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The median household income is $72,007, with a per capita income of $42,694 and a poverty rate of 8.05%. Housing is sparse, with 2,389 units at a density of 0.39 per square mile, and most residents own their homes.

Politically, Pershing County leans heavily Republican, with the last Democratic presidential candidate to win it being Lyndon Johnson in 1964. The county has a low incidence of natural disasters compared to the U.S. average, though it experiences significant earthquake activity. Public schools are above average, and the county supports a conservative community lifestyle. Key locations include Lovelock, the largest city, and smaller communities like Imlay and ghost towns such as Seven Troughs, tied to early 20th-century gold mining.

Nevada State Historic Marker 17

Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

Pershing County 1964

Here was a key point on Nevada’s earliest road, the famed Humboldt Trail that brought 165,000 emigrants west in the 1840’s and 50’s. Travelers named this rich valley The Big Meadows and stopped for water and grass before continuing south to cross the dreaded 40-Mile Desert, the most difficult lap on the trail to California.

Mining, still an important industry, began here in 1850’s. George Lovelock, merchant, rancher and prospector, gave his name to the county seat. The coming of the railroad in 1869 brought new growth to the area. Pershing County, established in 1919, was previously part of Humboldt County.

Nevada Centennial Marker No. 17

Nevada State Historic Marker 17 Map

Nevada State Historic Marker Summary

NamePershing County
LocationPershing County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude40.1803, -118.4769
Nevada State Historic Marker17

American Robin ( Turdus migratorius )

Posted on by

The American Robin (Turdus migratorius), a member of the thrush family is a migratory songbird commonly found across North America. Recognized for its bright orange-red breast, this species is a member of the thrush family, Turdidae. It is often considered a harbinger of spring due to its early arrival from migration and its prominent presence in backyards and gardens.

An American Robin ( Turdus migratorius ) pearched high in the branches of a pine tree.
An American Robin ( Turdus migratorius ) pearched high in the branches of a pine tree.

Physical Description

The American Robin measures about 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) in length with a wingspan of 12-16 inches (31-41 cm). Adults display a striking coloration: a reddish-orange breast, a dark gray to black head, back, wings, and tail, and a white lower belly and undertail. Their bill is yellow with a slight curve, and their eyes are surrounded by white rings, giving them a distinctive appearance.

Habitat and Distribution

More details Approximate range/distribution map of the American Robin (Turdus migratorius). - Ken Thomas
More details Approximate range/distribution map of the American Robin (Turdus migratorius). – Ken Thomas

American Robins are highly adaptable birds that inhabit a wide range of environments. They are found in woodlands, farmlands, urban areas, and suburban gardens. Their distribution extends from the northern parts of Canada to Central America. During breeding season, they prefer habitats with abundant trees and shrubs, while in the winter, they may flock to areas with ample fruit-bearing trees.

Behavior and Diet

American Robins are known for their characteristic behaviors, such as running and stopping on lawns while foraging for food. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of insects, earthworms, and fruits. In the spring and summer, they predominantly feed on invertebrates, switching to a fruit-heavy diet in the fall and winter. Robins play a significant role in controlling insect populations and seed dispersal.

Reproduction

Breeding season for American Robins starts in early spring and can continue through late summer. They typically have two to three broods per year. Nests are built by the female using grass, twigs, and mud, and are often located in trees, shrubs, or on man-made structures. The female lays 3-5 blue eggs, which she incubates for about two weeks. Both parents are involved in feeding the nestlings, which fledge approximately two weeks after hatching.

Migration

American Robins are partial migrants. Northern populations migrate southward in the fall to escape harsh winter conditions, while southern populations tend to be more sedentary. Migration patterns are influenced by food availability and weather conditions. Robins migrate in flocks and can travel considerable distances, often returning to the same breeding grounds each year.

Vocalization

The American Robin is known for its melodious song, which consists of a series of clear whistles and phrases. Their song is often described as “cheerily, cheer up, cheer up, cheerily, cheer up.” Males sing to establish and defend their territories and to attract mates. Robins are also known for their “tut-tut-tut” alarm calls when threatened.

Conservation Status

The American Robin is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their population is stable and widespread, benefitting from their adaptability to human-modified environments. However, they face threats from pesticide use, habitat loss, and window collisions.

Cultural Significance

American Robins hold a significant place in North American culture, often symbolizing renewal and the arrival of spring. They appear in various folklore and literature, celebrated for their vibrant appearance and cheerful song. The robin is also the state bird of Connecticut, Michigan, and Wisconsin, reflecting its widespread recognition and admiration.

The American Robin is a resilient and versatile bird that plays an important role in ecosystems across North America. Its striking appearance, melodious song, and adaptability have made it a beloved bird among birdwatchers and the general public. Ongoing conservation efforts ensure that this iconic species continues to thrive in its natural habitats.

References

White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis)

Posted on by
The fast flying White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis)
The fast flying White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis)


The White-throated Swift is a medium-sized bird known for its swift and agile flight, sleek body, and distinctive white throat patch. Adults typically measure around 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 15 inches (38 cm). They have a dark, glossy plumage that aids in camouflage against the rocky cliffs where they often dwell. Their wings are long and slender, adapted for rapid and maneuverable flight, while their short bills are perfect for catching insects mid-air. Juveniles resemble adults but may have less contrast in their plumage.

Habitat and Distribution

White-throated Swifts are primarily found in the western regions of North America, ranging from the southwestern United States through parts of Mexico. They inhabit rugged, rocky terrain such as canyons, cliffs, and gorges, where they nest in crevices and on ledges. These birds are particularly well adapted to arid environments and are often seen in desert landscapes, although they may also occur in mountainous regions.

Behavior and Ecology

White-throated Swifts are highly adapted for aerial foraging, feeding primarily on flying insects such as flies, beetles, and mosquitoes. They are renowned for their impressive flight abilities, performing intricate maneuvers as they hunt on the wing. Their swift and agile movements enable them to navigate through narrow passages and steep cliffs with ease. Breeding pairs typically construct cup-shaped nests made of twigs, feathers, and saliva, which they attach to vertical rock faces. During the breeding season, males perform aerial courtship displays to attract females.

Conservation Status

The White-throated Swift is not currently considered globally threatened, although local populations may be impacted by habitat loss and disturbance. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting nesting sites, particularly in areas where cliffs are subject to human development or recreational activities. As an insectivorous species, White-throated Swifts may also be vulnerable to pesticide use, which can reduce their prey availability.


The White-throated Swift is a fascinating species well adapted to its rugged habitat and aerial lifestyle. Its graceful flight and striking appearance make it a favorite among birdwatchers and enthusiasts. By understanding the ecology and behavior of the White-throated Swift, we can better appreciate the importance of conserving its unique habitat and ensuring the long-term survival of this remarkable bird.

Field Guide Description

“Black above, black and white below, with long, forked tail. Distinguished from Violet-green swallow, (page 322) by longer narrower wings, bicolored underparts. In poor light, may be mistaken for Black Swift but smaller, with faster wingbeats. Common in mountains, canyons, cliffs. Nests in crevices.”

Field Guide to the Birds of North America, Third Edition, pg 262

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderApodiformes
FamilyApodidae
GenusAeronautes
Speciessaxatalis

Resources

Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus)

Posted on by


The Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus) is a medium-sized woodpecker found across North America. It belongs to the family Picidae, which includes woodpeckers, sapsuckers, and flickers. This species is known for its distinctive sharp bill, behavior, and widespread distribution.

Northern Flicker nesting in the cedar siding of a Big Bear mountain cabin.
Northern Flicker nesting in the cedar siding of a Big Bear mountain cabin.

Description

The Northern Flicker exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males and females displaying different coloration. They have a length ranging from 28 to 36 centimeters (11 to 14 inches) and a wingspan of approximately 42 to 54 centimeters (16.5 to 21.3 inches).

  • Plumage: The upperparts of the Northern Flicker are brown with black barring, while the underparts are beige or tan with black spots. They have a black bib on their chest and a prominent black crescent on the breast. The undersides of their wings and tails are a vibrant yellow or red, depending on the subspecies.
  • Head: Their head is distinctive, with a gray face, a long, slightly curved bill, and a black malar stripe extending from the base of the bill to the neck.
  • Behavior: Northern Flickers are primarily ground foragers, often seen hopping on lawns or probing the soil for insects with their long, barbed tongues. They also feed on ants, beetles, termites, and fruits.

Habitat

Northern Flickers inhabit a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, forest edges, parks, suburban areas, and occasionally urban environments. They prefer areas with scattered trees and ample open ground for foraging.

Breeding and Nesting

Breeding season for Northern Flickers typically begins in late April and extends into August. They are cavity nesters and will excavate their own nest holes in dead or decaying trees, fence posts, or even buildings.

  • Eggs: Clutch sizes usually range from 3 to 8 eggs, which are white and elongated.
  • Incubation: Both parents participate in incubating the eggs, which lasts for about 11 to 14 days.
  • Fledging: The young birds fledge after approximately 25 to 28 days and remain dependent on their parents for several weeks after leaving the nest.

Migration

Approximate range/distribution map of the Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus). In keeping with WikiProject: Birds guidelines, yellow indicates the summer-only range, blue indicates the winter-only range, and green indicates the year-round range of the species.
Approximate range/distribution map of the Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus). In keeping with WikiProject: Birds guidelines, yellow indicates the summer-only range, blue indicates the winter-only range, and green indicates the year-round range of the species.

While some Northern Flicker populations are migratory, others are year-round residents. Migratory populations breed in northern regions and winter in southern areas, while non-migratory populations may remain in the same area throughout the year.

Conservation Status

The Northern Flicker is widespread and generally considered to be of least concern in terms of conservation status, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as competition for nest sites with invasive species such as European Starlings, pose localized threats.

The Northern Flicker is a fascinating species with its distinctive appearance, behavior, and adaptability to various habitats. Understanding its ecology and conservation needs is crucial for ensuring the continued well-being of this iconic woodpecker across its range. Further research into its nesting habits, population dynamics, and response to environmental changes can aid in effective conservation strategies.

Field Guide Description

“Two distinct groups occur: “Yellow-shafted Flicker” in the east and far north, and the “Red-shafted Flicker” in the west. These flickers have brown, barred back; spotted underparts, with black crescent bib. White rump is conspicuous in flight; no white wing patches. Intergrades are regularly seen in the Great Plains. “Yellow-shafted Flicker” has yellow wing lining and undertail color, gray crown, and tan face with a red crescent on nape. “Red-shafter Flicker” has brown crown and gray face, with no red crescent.”

Field Guide to the Birds of North America, Third Edition, pg 318

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPiciformes
FamilyPicidae
GenusColaptes
Speciescauratus

References

Osceola Nevada – Nevada State Historic Marker 98

Posted on by

Osceola, Nevada, located in White Pine County near Great Basin National Park, was the state’s most significant and longest-lived gold placer mining camp. Established in 1872 after the discovery of a vast gold-bearing quartz belt, Osceola thrived as a bustling mining town in the 1880s, driven by innovative hydraulic mining techniques and an extensive water delivery system. This report chronicles Osceola’s history, from its founding to its decline and current status as a ghost town, drawing on historical records, state markers, and primary sources.

Founding and Early Development (1872–1877)

In 1872, prospectors James Matteson and Frank Heck discovered a gold-bearing quartz belt 12 miles long and 7 miles wide, three miles west of what is now Great Basin National Park. The Osceola Mining District was formally established in October 1872, named after the Seminole chief Osceola. Initial mining efforts were limited by a lack of water, with miners using simple “49” rockers to process placer gold found in Dry Gulch in 1877 by John Versan. By 1874, the camp had grown to 250 residents, and a five-stamp mill was built in 1878 to replace primitive arrastras, marking the town’s early growth.

Boom Period and Hydraulic Mining (1878–1890)

Osceola’s major boom began in the 1880s with the introduction of hydraulic mining, a technique using high-pressure water jets to extract gold from gravel beds 10 to 200 feet thick. To address the region’s water scarcity, the Osceola Gravel Mining Company constructed two extensive ditch systems. The West Ditch, built from 1884 to 1885, spanned 16 miles, drawing water from six creeks on the west side of the Snake Range. However, it proved inadequate, with mines operating only two hours daily due to water shortages, as reported by the White Pine News on September 12, 1885.

In 1889, construction began on the Osceola East Ditch, an 18-mile canal from Lehman Creek and its tributaries, completed on July 4, 1890, at a cost of $108,223 (approximately $3.5 million in 2025 dollars). This ambitious project, involving 300 laborers, including Chinese and Western Shoshone and Southern Paiute workers, featured a 600-foot tunnel, wooden flumes, and a rock dam at Stella Lake. By 1891, both ditches enabled 24-hour mining operations, boosting production. A notable find in 1886—a 24-pound gold nugget valued at $6,000 (about $190,000 in 2025)—further fueled the boom.

At its peak in the mid-1880s, Osceola had a population of approximately 1,500, supported by two stores, a hotel, a restaurant, a school, a brewery, saloons, and professional services. It was among the first Nevada towns with electric lights and the first in White Pine County with a telephone. The town’s strategic location near Spring and Snake Valleys’ cattle, grain, and garden resources made it a regional business hub. Key mines included the Cumberland, Osceola, Crescent and Eagle, Verde, Stem-Winder, Gilded Age, Grandfather Snide, Red Monster, and Saturday Night.

Decline (1890–1900)

Osceola’s prosperity waned by 1890 due to multiple challenges. A major fire that year destroyed much of Main Street, accelerating the town’s decline. The East Ditch, despite its scale, underperformed due to leaky flumes, water theft, and insufficient snowmelt, limiting hydraulic mining to three or four months annually. Production in 1890 was $16,191, and in 1891, $20,223—far below expectations. Water shortages from mild winters and legal disputes over water rights further hampered operations. By 1900, the Osceola Placer Mining Company ceased operations, and the population dwindled to 100, insufficient to maintain a post office. Hydraulic mining ended in 1900, and the ditches were abandoned.

Revivals and Final Decline (1906–1950s)

A 1906 proposal by the Nevada Amalgamated Mines and Power Company to build reduction works, a power plant, and a railroad spur failed to materialize. Mining resumed sporadically from 1925 to 1932, when the Nicholson Mining & Milling Company operated an 80-ton mill with a 3,500-foot water pipeline, and again from 1936 to 1942 during World War II. Over its lifetime, Osceola produced nearly $5 million in gold (approximately $150 million in 2025 dollars), with minor amounts of silver, lead, and tungsten. A devastating fire in the 1940s destroyed most remaining structures, and by the 1950s, the last residents departed, leaving Osceola a ghost town.

Connection to Nevada Northern Railway

While Osceola’s peak predated the Nevada Northern Railway’s completion in 1906, the railway, connecting Ely to national rail networks, likely supported later mining revivals by facilitating ore transport. The railway’s Ore Line, serving nearby Ruth and McGill, underscores its role in White Pine County’s mining economy, though Osceola’s remote location limited direct rail access. (from prior conversation)

Present Day

Today, Osceola is a ghost town at 7,500 feet on the western slopes of Mt. Wheeler, accessible via a gravel road off U.S. Highways 6 and 50, 34 miles east of Ely. The cemetery, overlooking Spring Valley, and a few scattered buildings remain, alongside remnants of the East Ditch, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. The West Ditch is largely deteriorated, and the East Ditch, though overgrown, retains sections of flume and a partially collapsed tunnel at Strawberry Creek. Small-scale mining continues, with 217 active and 1,872 closed claims in the Osceola Mining District. One resident reportedly remains, and visitors are urged to respect private property. The site is a photographic attraction near Great Basin National Park, with the cemetery being the most notable feature.

Conclusion

Osceola, Nevada, exemplifies the transient nature of mining boomtowns. Its innovative use of hydraulic mining and the ambitious Osceola Ditch system highlight the ingenuity and challenges of placer mining in an arid region. Despite producing nearly $5 million in gold, fires, water shortages, and declining ore yields led to its demise. Today, Osceola’s sparse remnants and historical significance, preserved by Nevada State Historical Marker No. 98 and the East Ditch’s National Register listing, offer a glimpse into Nevada’s mining heritage, making it a compelling destination for historians and visitors to Great Basin National Park.

Nevada State Historic Marker 98

Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

Most of the markers across the state are large blue metal markers. However, there are a variety of other marker styles out there. For this guide they have been simplified into a few categories (blue, blue small, concrete, and stone). Sometimes, the markers are on buildings, fences, or metal stands.

Osceola 1872-1940

Osceola, most famous of the White Pine County gold producers, was one of the longest-lived placer camps in Nevada.

The gold-bearing quartz belt found in 1872 was 12 miles long by 7 miles wide.  Placer gold was found in 1877 in a deep ravine indenting the area.  Miners first used the simple process of the common 49” rocker.  Hydraulic monitors later were used to mine the gold from the 10’ to 200’ thick gravel beds.  One gold nugget found was valued at $6,000.

Osceola was a good business town because of its location near the cattle and grain ranches and gardens in the Spring and Snake Valleys.

Famous district mines were the Cumberland, Osceola, Crescent and Eagle, Verde, Stem-Winder, Guilded Age, Grandfather Snide, Red Monster, and the Saturday Night.

The camp produced nearly $5 million, primarily in gold, with some silver, lead, and tungsten.

STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO.  98

STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE

WHITE PINE PUBLIC MUSEUM, INC.

Nevada State Historic Marker 98

Nevada State Historic Marker Summary

NameOsceola
LocationWhite Pine County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.0711, -114.4500
Nevada State Historic Marker98

References