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GOLDEN EAGLE NEST MONITORING • On 26 April, known golden eagle nests near the permit area were checked for activity. A biologist observed the nests through a spotting scope from a vehicle parked at a vantage point. Nests were watched until their status (active, inactive, alternate, etc.) could be determined. SANDHILL CRANES On 27 April, two biologists conducted a pedestrian survey for sandhill cranes and habitat that could support them on small portions of both the permit area and the pending Seneca II-W South Expansion; specifically SE'/e Section 22 and E'/z Section 27, TSN, R88W. In addition, field personnel watched and listened for crane activity while conducting other surveys and traveling in the area. Pazticular attention was given to habitats most likely to attract cranes, such as drainages and meadows. RESULTS • BIG GAME The sky was partly cloudy during the aerial survey on 16 February. Snow coverage was complete, but less than one foot deep. Most of that snow had accumulated in the four days preceding the survey. In general, snow fall was rather minimal in the area during winter 1999-2000. Visibility during the survey was rated as good. Expanded Survey Area A complete listing of all wildlife observations made during the aerial survey is given in Appendix I. Big game observations are also illustrated on Exhibit 1. A total of 679 elk (7.61miz) in 38 herds were seen during the survey. Three herds of mule deer (24 animals) were also observed. Additional animals recorded included: nine sharp-tailed grouse, three coyotes (Canis latrons), three bobcats (Lynx rufus), two golden eagles, and one bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). Elk occurred as lone individuals and in herds of as many as 137 animals; average herd • size was ]7.9 animals. Elk were widely distributed over the area, but were notably absent 2000 Seneca n-W Mine Wildlife Moni~oring Page 3