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2.04.11 Fish and Wildlife Resources Information <br />The fish and wildlife of the region encompassing the permit area and the <br />adjacent areas form a varied complex of various mammals, birds, fish, <br />amphibians, reptiles and insects. A number of environmental factors <br />such as soils, vegetation, climate, influence of distribution, <br />composition, and population of fauna within the region influence fish <br />and wildlife populations. While several smaller species of animals are <br />closely tied with two particular habitats, larger ones range over the <br />region and may be found in different habitats depending on climatic <br />conditions and the season of the year. <br />Only three of the ten species classified as big game by the Colorado <br />Division of 4ildlife are located within the region in substantial <br />numbers. These three species are mule deer, elk, and black bear. <br />Cougar, or mountain lion, have been observed in the area in the past, <br />but their numbers are limited due to the extended territorial nature of <br />the species. No critical habitats for the three principal big game <br />• species are found within the area to be disturbed by TCC. Likewise, <br />because TCC facilities will be located on areas used for agricultural <br />purposes, no critical habitat is expected to be impacted. <br />The most common game bird found in the permit and adjacent area is the <br />mourning dove. In a few areas, the blue grouse may occur, but only at <br />adjacent higher elevations. <br />During breeding season, several species of raptors are found in the <br />vicinity of the permit area. During the winter, the red-tail hawk and <br />golden eagle have been commonly observed, and bald eagles may use the <br />area along the North Fork of the Gunnison River. <br />North Fork of the Gunnison River begins at the conflux of the Anthracite <br />and Muddy Creeks, approximately 15 miles upstream from the permit area. <br />The stream is classified as a fishery stream by the Colorado Division of <br />• 4lildlife. Surveys assessing the condition of the aquatic environment as <br />indicated by macroinvertebrate populations show that the section of the <br />2.04-15 <br />