Islands scattered throughout provide good nesting habitat for many bird species. Over 200 springs flow into the marsh along its west border creating riparian habitat which is used by many songbirds, snipe, rail and small mammals. They also provide a water source for larger mammals. With slight increases in elevation, wet meadows gradate into grasslands and sagebrush-rabbitbrush habitat. Pinon Pines and juniper cover the slopes of the Ruby Mountains that rise to 11,000 feet along the west side of the refuge.
Canyons provide habitat for a variety of wildife.
Rock cliffs provide raptors with nesting and perching sites. A mountainside of dead trees, home for cavity dwelling birds, was the result of a 1979 fire. Viewing Wildlife Viewing wildlife is best done during morning and evening hours. Binoculars or a spotting scope greatly assist in identifying wildlife and observing their behavior. For a unique opportunity to see the marsh wildlife up-close, the South Sump is open during part of the year for canoeing and electric motors.