Only one federally threatened species, desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii), is predicted to occur on Walking Box Ranch. Desert tortoise is also listed as a State of Nevada threatened species. Desert tortoise population declines have been documented since the 1970s, and the Mojave Desert population of tortoise was listed as threatened in 1990 based on concerns for the species due to habitat degradation and loss, predation and take (particularly as juveniles), and the effects of disease and drought. Critical habitat for the tortoise has been established by USFWS in areas of the species’ range; one of these, the Piute-Eldorado Valley CHU , completely surrounds Walking Box Ranch. Typical habitats for tortoise within the CHU are flats, alluvial fans, and bajadas, but tortoises will readily use rockier, steeper terrain. Burrows are dug in friable soils, often in embankments or under vegetation. The MSHCP wildlife habitat model for this species indicates that the entire ranch area, as well as the surrounding habitat, is potential tortoise habitat, with the exception of the area in and immediately around the ranch buildings. Desert tortoises are relatively slow-moving and easy to approach in open areas, leading to negative impacts from human interactions. The BLM is responsible for the protection of all federally listed species and their habitat present on Walking Box Ranch.

The MBTA (16 United States Code [U.S.C.] 703-711) covers all migratory birds against unintentional or purposeful “taking” which includes killing, possessing, or transporting any migratory bird or its eggs, nests, or parts. All native bird species which are found on the Walking Box Ranch are protected by the MBTA .