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4 - 25 <br />• 4.3.3 MEDIUM-SIZED MAMMALS <br />Medium-sized mammals can be considered a miscellaneous assemblage of animals ranging <br />in size from cottontails to coyotes. Some are important furbearers, others are game species, <br />predators, or prey species, and most tend to have a certain esthetic appeal. The cottontail <br />rabbit was found to be one of the most abundant mammals within the lease area. Two species <br />are likely to occur in the areas: the desert cottontail and Nuttall's cottontail. Nuttall's, or the <br />mountain cottontails, would likely be restricted to the upland, rocky and timbered sights. The <br />preferred habitat of the desert cottontail is the drier, lowland sites. Cottontails are an important <br />prey species in this area, and they undoubtedly contribute substantially to the total prey base of <br />coyotes, bobcats, and the larger raptorial birds, particularly golden eagles. Coyotes were found <br />to be abundant. Many tracks and vocalizations were seen and heard during the course of the <br />field studies. Tracks of cottontails and coyotes were recorded during the winter track count <br />study (Table 4.3.2). The more important habitats of these species are suggested by the data <br />shown. Old signs of beaver activity were observed at several locations along East Salt Creek, <br />but no indications were observed of recent occupancy. The general habitat conditions for <br />• beaver are marginal within the lease area. Long-tailed weasels were found to be quite <br />numerous; many tracks were observed on snow. No signs of bobcat, porcupine, raccoon, or <br />striped skunk were observed, although these species are probably present. <br />• <br />M~ Volume 1 4 -29 - 96 <br />