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Lorenciro Caryon Minr - Wfdfije Techmcaf ReOOrt • Eagles are ofren attracted to wintering concentrations of waterfowl. In some regions, carrion can also be an important food source. Perches aze an essential element in the bald eagles' selection of foraging areas, because they are necessary for hunting and resting. Ice, driftwood, fence posts, cliffs and rock outcrops, gravel bars in rivers, shorelines, telephone poles, open hillsides, and trees are used as perches. However, dead deciduous trees are preferred (Stalmaster and Newman, 1979). Roosts are areas used for sleeping and providing protection from winter storms. Usually, eagles leave the roost for feeding aeeas in early morning and return in the evening. However, during severe weather when [hey may remain at the roost all day. Roosts may be used by individual birds or small to large groups of birds. Also, roosts can be used in successive years. Large, live trees of dominant or co-dominant species that occur in sheltered areas (e.g., in the protected slopes of a valley or ravine or behind a bluff) are preferred (Lish, 1975). Nest sites are the primary habitat feature important to breeding eagles. Although nests are usually located in trees, they can also occur on the ground or on cliff ledges. Eagles prefer to nest in live trees, and construct the nest just below the top of the tree (Todd 1979). Nests can be found in any • tree large enough to hold a nest. Nests are also usually close to water and food sources. Good visibility from the nest and a clear flight path to and from the nest are essential requirements (Grubb 1976). The CDOW has identified bald eagle wintering aeeas along the Purgatoire River west of the permit area. This wintering area is defined as areas where bald eagles have been observed from November 15 through April 1 (CDOW, 1996d). During the February field surveys one bald eagle was observed flying over the permit area. This was the only bald eagle observed during any of the field surveys. Nesting eagles are not anticipated to occur within the permit area. However, marginally suitable nesting habitat occurs along the Purgatoire River on the northern boundary of the permit area. Although eagles could nest in this area, better habitat exists around Trinidad Reservoir, approximately ten miles east of the permit area. Also, no bald eagle nests have been identified within or neaz the permit azea (CDOW, 1996d and USFWS, 1996). In addition, the aerial surveys and raptor nest surveys did not locate any bald eagle nests within the permit area. Therefore, while eagles may nest in the area, the probability is low. Peregrine Falcon The peregrine falcon is afederally-listed endangered species. Peregrines occupy a wide variety of habitats. They are typically associated with open country near rivers, marshes, and coasts. • Wildlife.d75/Decembcr 13, 1996 23