Little Owyhee River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Little Owyhee River |
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Much of the Little Owyhee River's water comes from the Owyhee Mountain range
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Location of the mouth of the Little Owyhee River in Idaho
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| Country | United States |
| State | Nevada, Idaho |
| Counties | Humboldt County, Nevada, Elko County, Nevada, Owyhee County, Idaho |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | east of the Santa Rosa Range, Humboldt County, Nevada 6,739 ft (2,054 m) 41°48′30″N 117°17′03″W / 41.80833°N 117.28417°W |
| River mouth | South Fork Owyhee River Owyhee County, Idaho 4,363 ft (1,330 m) 42°10′03″N 116°52′19″W / 42.16750°N 116.87194°W |
| Length | 61 mi (98 km) |
The Little Owyhee River is a river in the western United States. It flows for about 61 miles (98 kilometers). This river is a tributary, which means it's a smaller river that flows into a larger one. The Little Owyhee River joins the South Fork Owyhee River.
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Where the Little Owyhee River Flows
The Little Owyhee River starts high up in the mountains. Its journey begins at an elevation of about 6,739 feet (2,054 meters). This starting point is east of the Santa Rosa Range in Humboldt County, Nevada.
Journey Through Nevada and Idaho
From its source, the river generally flows towards the east. It travels into Elko County, Nevada. This area is part of the Owyhee Desert, a dry and rugged landscape. After flowing through Nevada, the river turns north. It then crosses the state line into Owyhee County, Idaho.
Meeting the South Fork Owyhee River
The Little Owyhee River finishes its journey in Idaho. It reaches its mouth, or end point, at an elevation of about 4,363 feet (1,330 meters). Here, it flows into the South Fork Owyhee River. This larger river eventually joins the main Owyhee River.
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Map of the Little Owyhee River flowing north through Nevada into Idaho where it joins the South Fork of the Owyhee before joining the main river.
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The Owyhee Desert Environment
The Owyhee Desert is a unique place. It is known for its wide-open spaces and rugged beauty. The Little Owyhee River flows through parts of this desert. Rivers like this are very important in dry regions. They provide water for plants and animals.
Wildlife Along the River
Even in a desert, rivers create a special habitat. Along the Little Owyhee River, you might find different kinds of wildlife. This could include birds, small mammals, and reptiles. The water supports plants that provide food and shelter for these animals.
Importance of Rivers in Deserts
Rivers are like lifelines in desert environments. They bring water from mountains to drier areas. This water helps create green areas called riparian zones. These zones are full of life, even when the surrounding land is very dry. The Little Owyhee River plays this important role in its region.
