Mojave Max Sets Emergence Record in 2025

Mojave Max Emergence Contest

Mojave Max, the desert tortoise mascot of the Clark County Desert Conservation Program, emerged from his burrow on May 8, 2025, at 2:09 p.m. This set a new record for the latest emergence in the program’s 25-year history. His previous latest emergence was on April 24, 2023. His earliest appearance was on February 14, 2005. The late emergence this year signals unusual weather activity in Southern Nevada.

Temperature swings delayed Mojave Max’s return

Max’s brumation lasted longer this year due to cold spells, strong wind, and erratic rainfall. These environmental changes, combined with shared burrow conditions, extended his dormancy. He shared the space with two other tortoises who entered brumation later than he did. This led to a 14-day delay, breaking all previous records. Max’s annual emergence is closely tied to warmer temperatures, increasing daylight, and internal biological cues.

Students and residents joined contest to predict the date

For the first time, the Mojave Max Emergence Contest welcomed all Clark County residents, not just elementary school students. This year, over 3,600 students and 1,500 adults submitted guesses. Each contestant aimed to predict the exact time and day Max would emerge. The winning student will receive a laptop, a national parks pass, Springs Preserve membership, and a pizza party field trip. Their teacher also receives a laptop. The classroom will receive shirts, medals, and a trophy. The countywide winner earns a gift package donated by The Venetian Resort, Las Vegas Character Parties, and the Desert Conservation Program.

The program celebrates 25 years of community education

Launched in 2000, the contest teaches students about desert climate, seasonal changes, and wildlife. It promotes the message to Respect, Protect, and Enjoy Our Desert. By combining science with community engagement, the contest encourages environmental awareness at an early age. The expanded public contest this year reflects Clark County’s ongoing push for broader conservation outreach.

County agencies drive sustainability through education and outreach

The Department of Environment and Sustainability leads this educational campaign. The agency also manages the Desert Conservation Program and the All-In Clark County initiative. These programs tackle climate challenges and promote protection of species like the desert tortoise. They also focus on clean air, electrification, and habitat restoration. Clark County serves over 2.4 million residents and hosts 43 million visitors each year. Its environmental division is central to keeping the region livable, green, and resilient.

Mojave Max continues to inspire community conservation

Questions about Max or the contest should be sent to Audrie Locke at Audrie.Locke@ClarkCountyNV.gov or 725-270-4286. For information about Max’s habitat, contact Tom Bradley at the Las Vegas Springs Preserve. To participate, learn more, or share in the celebration, visit www.ClarkCountyNV.gov or www.MojaveMax.com and join the legacy of the Mojave Max Emergence Contest Just Now News.