National Conservation Area Morley Nelson Snake River Birds Of Prey
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The National Conservation Area Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey is located in southwestern Idaho and is considered one of the best places in the world to view birds of prey.
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Summary
Visitors can witness the spectacular aerial displays of hundreds of raptors, including golden eagles, prairie falcons, and peregrine falcons. This conservation area is a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in learning more about conservation efforts.
Some of the specific points of interest to see in the area include the Snake River Canyon, which is over 1,000 feet deep and provides expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The Kuna Caves, located nearby, offer visitors a unique perspective of the area's geological history. Other notable features of the area include the desert scenery, including the "Owyhee Uplands" and the rugged Snake River canyon.
Interesting facts about the area include that it is home to the highest concentration of nesting raptors in North America, with over 800 pairs breeding in the area. Also, Morley Nelson, for whom the conservation area is named, was a renowned conservationist who dedicated his life to protecting birds of prey in the area.
The best time of year to visit the National Conservation Area Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey is between March and July, when the raptors are in their breeding season, and visitors can witness their incredible aerial displays. However, the area is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities throughout the year.
Overall, the National Conservation Area Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the world of birds of prey and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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