Due to the combination of incorrectly transcribed map coordinates and poor directions on behalf of the Pyramid Lake Ranger Station, we weren't able to get to our first locality, Two Ledges Chamber, as easily as we had originally planned. Despite spending most of the day driving, not all was lost. We were able to establish our sampling protocol for lagomorph and raptor pellets as well as for sampling lagomorph roadkill. On the way back to our campsite, we finally located Two Ledges Chamber and decided to search for raptor pellets there the following morning on our way out. Highlights of the day: coming across the first rattlesnake of the trip, driving through Gurlach, Nevada, the home of Burning Man Festival, and attempting to eat salad that flew off our plates due to the wind.
Searching for lagomorph pellets in the sagebrush.
Gurlach, Nevada.
Whitewash on rock outcroppings indicates the presence of a raptor roost, underneath which raptor pellets can be found. We'd also look for carnivore scat in the area. Collecting pellets and scats containing small mammal bones serves as a relatively simple and noninvasive way to determine the makeup of surrounding mammal populations.
Close-up of the whitewash.
Tony collecting raptor pellets.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.
We all managed to stand in a line while looking at the rattlesnake.
Jonathan snipping a sample from the ear of a dead rabbit.
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