2003-05-14_PERMIT FILE - M2003001

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The only wildlife species or wildlife sign observed on the project site included deer tracks from multiple individuals (Odocoileus sp.) and a group ofred-shafted flickers (Colaptes auratus). Seasonal Use The mammal species encountered during the site inspection or that potentially occur on- site aze expected to be yeaz-round residents or users of the site. The carnivore and ungulate species aze not restricted to this site and tend to have relatively large home ranges (up to several squaze miles). The majority of rodent and insectivore species can be expected to reside on-site throughout the year, though many may hibernate during the cold months. Avian species may beyear-round, temporary migrants, or summer or winter residents of the site. Yeaz-round residents would include the waterfowl, raptors, gallihaceous birds, pigeons, owls, and woodpeckers. The majority ofthe shorebQds and passerines would use the site during the spring, summer, and fall for feeding or resting during migration. Amphibian and reptile species of the site are yeaz-round residents. Threatened and Endangered Species and Critical Habitat Potential habitat for any identified species of special concern was evaluated. In particulaz, potential habitat for the Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei), Ute ladies'-tresses orchid (Spiranthes diluvialis), and bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was evaluated based on results of other wildlife investigations in the area and a database seazch of the specific azea by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program Based on our investigations we concluded that no potential habitat exists for the Preble's meadow jumping mouse within the project site. A request for disqualification of the site from consideration as potential habitat was submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on November 25, 2002. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service concurred with our evaluation on December 4, 2002, and concluded that the site was disqualified for consideration as Preble's meadow jumping mouse habitat under the Endangered Species Act (correspondence in Appendix). Based on our investigations we concluded that no potential habitat for the Ute ladies', tresses orchid is present within the project site. A request for disqualification was forwarded to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on November 22, 2002. A decision by the Service is pending at this time. No eagles or eagle nests were observed during our investigation of the site. Based on previous conversations with Mr. Jerry Craig, raptor expert with the Colorado Division of Wildlife, there aze no eagle nest locations in this area. Bald eagles would likely be occasional users of the adjacent ripazian corridor and river for foraging and temporary roosting in the winter months. The project site and adjacent area are not characteristic golden eagle habitat, lacking cliffs and bluffs.