2004-11-09_REVISION - M2000016 (4)

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WILDLIFE RESOURCES ASSESSMENT FORT LUPTON PROPERTIES. WELD COUNTY, COLORADO state listed in the future, regulations regarding protection of this species could be imposed Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) The common garter snake is considered globally secure but rare in Colorado and is a state species of special concern. This species occurs only along the South Platte River drainage below 6,000 feet in northeastern Colorado (Hammerson 1999). This snake inhabits marshes, ponds, and stream edges, essentially restricted to aquatic and riparian habitats within floodplains. Although no common garter snakes were seen on the property, suitable habitat is present in the study area, Riparian and wetland areas associated with the South Platte River, Big Dry Creek, and nearby irrigation ditches could potentially support populations of this species. Large Mammals Areas within the project site provide habitat for animals including coyote (Canis latrans), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), American badger (Taxidea taxus), and raccoon (Procyon lotor). Coyote tracks and droppings were observed within the prairie dog town. Raccoon tracks were observed along Big Dry Creek and the South Platte River. No sign or evidence of red fox or badger was observed, but these species are likely to occur in or near the study area. According to the Colorado NDIS, the project site does not contain any sensitive elk (Cervus elaphus), mule deer (Odocoileus hemonius), or pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) range, although mule deer were observed foraging on the site. The proposed project will not substantially impact large mammal species. Small Mammals Smaller mammals such as cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus spp.), deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus), and pocket gophers (Geomys bursarius) also utilize the habitat within the project site. Desert cottontails were observed using abandoned prairie dog burcows. Signs of digging by pocket gophers were observed in a few locations in the southern IO