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brood rearing are low. Brood numbers observed indicate that this azea is not preferred over other <br />similar habitats away from the areas to be disturbed. <br />Blue grouse breed on the property along the high ridges (Exhibit 2.7-2). Observations <br />show that there are other suitable ridges where the displaced birds could potentially relocate. <br />The nearest known sage grouse lek is five miles from the permit area (Exhibit 2.7-2). <br />Due to a "State Special Concern" classification by the Colorado Division of Wildlife, <br />Columbian sharp-tailed grouse are being intensively studied to determine their use of, and <br />occurrence on and azound, the permit area. The first year of data showed that year around <br />numbers of sharp-tailed grouse occurring on the property aze relatively low with higher numbers <br />occurring in surrounding areas. <br />One sharp-tailed grouse lek located neaz the Moffat Area (Exhibit 2.7-2) was observed <br />regulazly throughout the breeding period. Attendance figures indicate that this lek may not be as <br />important to the population as other grounds in the area. However, until mining actually begins, <br />indirect impact on this lek can not be predicted. <br />Other species of birds and mammals occur in the area (both on and off the property) in <br />numbers that would be expected for these habitat types. <br />Data collected to date show that in the areas reclaimed to smooth contours with grasses <br />and fortis wildlife use is low except for rodents and raptors that prey on the rodents. In contrast, <br />the unreclaimed areas on West Ridge receive high use by a diverse number of species. This high <br />use appears to be in response to two primary factors, 1) increased relief in the topography and 2) <br />more diverse vegetative communities resulting from the microclimates created. The result is <br />increased food and cover for wildlife, especially larger species such as deer. <br />No threatened or endangered species were observed on or over the permit area. Greater <br />Sandhill Cranes (Gros Canadensis tabida), Greater Sage Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) and <br />Columbian Sharp-Tailed Grouse (Tympanuchus phasianellus columbianus), currently listed as a <br />species of special concern by the state of Colorado, have been observed either on site or adjacent <br />to the mine site. Greater Sandhill Cranes which were previously considered endangered but <br />currently listed as a species of special concern by the state of Colorado, were observed near the <br />permit area on more than one occasion. No breeding, nesting or brood rearing by these birds was <br />observed on or near the permit area. <br />2.7-2 Revised 11/06 <br />