LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Mojave Max, Southern Nevada’s famous “weather tortoise,” had not emerged from his winter burrow as of 2:09 p.m. Friday, marking his latest emergence on record and surpassing the previous record set in 2025.
Max is a live, desert tortoise and the official mascot and springtime prognosticator for Las Vegas locals alike.
His annual emergence is tracked because it typically signals the start of spring in Southern Nevada.
Unlike Punxsutawney Phil on Groundhog Day, Max is not disturbed for the event. He emerges on his own when temperatures and conditions are right — typically between February and May.
Max lives at Springs Preserve, where the public follows annual “Mojave Max Watch” updates.
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