Description

The Rainbow Owl Preserve is an area traditionally inhabited by Burrowing Owls that was in danger of being paved over during urban development as the northern edge of Las Vegas pushed farther into the desert. Concerned citizens and Red Rock Audubon Society worked together to raise money and preserve a small portion of the original owl habitat.

The Rainbow Owl Preserve is comprised of three small parcels located near the north edge of the Las Vegas urban area along Rainbow Blvd. All three are fenced to keep people and dogs out, so viewing always is from the perimeter. The rural nature of the area provides plenty of off-pavement parking. All three are accessible, even viewable from a vehicle.

Find the owls by looking for piles of rocks and upright posts. These structures were installed near natural and artificial burrows and offer the owls a place to stand above the ground while surveying their domain for danger.

Link to map.

Location

Rainbow Owl Preserve is located in the northwest part of Las Vegas, about 15 miles (20 minutes) from downtown.

From downtown, drive north on Highway 95 to N Buffalo Dr (exit 91B). Exit the highway and turn right onto Buffalo. Buffalo bends left to run due north. Drive north 1.0 miles to W Elkhorn Rd. Turn right onto W Elkhorn Rd and drive east 0.5 miles to N Tenaya Way. Turn left onto N Tenaya Way and drive north 0.6 miles to Donald Nelson Ave. Turn right onto Donald Nelson Ave and drive east 2 blocks to Rio Vista St. Continue across Rio Vista and park ahead on the left between Rio Vista St and Balsam St. This is the main owl area.

Continue east on Donald Nelson Ave. Turn left onto Balsam St and drive north 1 block to Whispering Sands. Turn right onto Whispering Sands and drive east 1 block to Rainbow Blvd. The second owl area is on the left -- a small, fenced triangle of land.

Turn left onto Rainbow Blvd and drive north 1 block. Park on the right before Jo Marcy Dr. This is the third owl area.