Spring is the time to view wildlife and to help people enjoy that opportunity the Nevada Department of Wildlife is sponsoring a Wildlife Watch Saturday.

The free wildlife viewing event will take place at the Overton Wildlife Management Area from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Overton WMA is located an hour drive north of Las Vegas and is one of 11 such areas in the state.

Operated by the department, the Overton WMA boasts a number of ponds where viewers can see many species of water birds such as avocets, stilts and swans.

Because of the management area's proximity to Lake Mead, viewers also can see raptors such as golden eagles and ospreys.

Agricultural fields on the WMA attract both birds and terrestrial animals by providing a food source. Reptiles, small mammals, and turkeys are a common sight for visitors.

The Wildlife Watch will consist of a guided hike through the management area. Participants will receive a photographic reference to commonly sighted species as well as some wildlife-watching tips. Hikers will also learn about animal tracks and other signs of animal presence. The Watch is suitable for adults and children. Sorry, no pets.

Overton Wildlife Management Area is at 1000 Waterfowl Road, off Moapa Valley Boulevard at the east end of the town of Overton.

It can be reached by taking I-15 north from Las Vegas to Highway 169 east or by Highway 169 north from the Valley of Fire or Lake Mead.

The Wildlife Watch is part of National Environmental Education Week. For more information call Margie Klein at 702-486-5127 x 3502.

Those who are interested in learning more about Nevada's wildlife management areas find brochures online at www.ndow.org/about/pubs/.