Moose near Rio Grande Reservoir. Along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway (State Hwy 149), US Hwy 160, and many Forest Service roads that traverse Mineral County, plenty of opportunities exist for observing wildlife. Evenings and early mornings are the best times for sightings. Depending on the season, mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, moose and a host of other mammals and birds are abundant. Summer or winter, deer are a fairly common encounter while elk, moose, and bighorn sheep tend to migrate into lower valleys as the high country weather cools. Bear, lynx, cougar, bobcat, marmot, ground squirrels and many other small mammals also are common to the area. Catching sight of these wild creatures is always a thrilling experience. However, all wildlife should be respected for their wildness. Do not attempt to approach or feed wild creatures.