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• NEB/a SEA/a Section 9, TSN, R87W), and STG-3 (in SE'/a NW'/a Section 9, TSN, R87W). In <br />1996, PRES monitored the leks on 22 and 24 April. Each day, a biologist drove or walked to a <br />vantage point and counted the birds present. <br />Raptor Nests <br />During the 26 January helicopter survey, the observers looked for raptor nests in trees and <br />along cliffs. All nests seen were plotted on 1:24000 topographic maps. On 24 April, a ground <br />search was conducted for golden eagle nests on or within one mile of the permit area; previously <br />identified eagle nests were checked for activity on 18 June. <br />Sandhill Crane Activity <br />Surveys for sandhill crane use areas were conducted on 22 and 24 April. On those days, <br />a biologist searched habitats most likely to attract cranes, such drainages and meadows. <br />• Loggerhead Shrike <br />Searches for loggerhead shrikes on the Yoast permit area were conducted on 17, 18, and <br />19 June. On those days, a biologist drove and walked throughout the permit area looking for <br />shrikes. Search efforts were concentrated in areas where shrikes would most likely occur, such <br />as the brushy edges of grassy meadows. <br />F.S Ti.T ND DI 4SION <br />Big Game <br />The sky was overcast during the 26 January aerial survey. Approximately 18 inches of <br />snow fell during the 36 hours prior to the survey, and deep snow cover (z3-4 feet) was present <br />over the entire area. Because the snow cover was so extensive and deep, visibility was rated as <br />excellent during the survey. <br />Expanded Survey Area <br />A complete listing of all observations made during the aerial survey is given in Appendix <br />• I. Al] sightings are also plotted on Exhibit 1. During the survey, 1,479 elk (13.7 animals/mil) <br />1996 Yoas[ Mine Site Wildlife Monitoring Page 3 <br />