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In general, on a low to high perturbation scale of 0 to 10, we <br />estimate impact to be 0. <br />(10) BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) <br />The burrowing owl is thought by many to be declining in numbers. <br />Therefore, it is necessary to examine the potential impact of <br />the proposed coal mine and its supporting facilities on this <br />bird. This owl nests in large rodent (e.g. prairie dogs) <br />burrows and feeds on small rodents in grassland habitats. Field <br />observations showed burrowing owls present in the area of high <br />prairie dog populations. <br />• As with the ferruginous hawk, the major potential impact on <br /> these owls xill be from increased human activity near nest <br />sites, causing desertion and/or decreased nestling survival. <br />Since they nest underground, however, there should be less <br />disturbance. Construction activities near the nesting sites <br />would be less harmful if restricted to times when young or eggs <br />are not in the nest. Hoxever, increased recreational activity <br />is a factor that cannot be controlled. Furthermore, the waste <br />disposal site will destroy possible nesting burrows. <br />The burrowing owl hoe a smaller hunting territory than the other <br />raptors discussed, so the potential impact on the feeding <br />grounds may be greataer. The waste disposal site will also <br />• destroy some feeding areas. <br />II.H-98 <br />