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PRES checked the Seneca rY1 and I!2 leks for activity within one hour of sunrise on 25 <br />• and 27 April 2000. On both mornings, a biologist first observed each lek from a distance with <br />binoculars. After all points of activity were identified and a preliminary count of birds was <br />made, the biologist walked toward the center of activity and made a Flush count as birds flew <br />from the area. The biologist walked back and forth through the active area to make sure all <br />birds were flushed and counted. <br />Searches for new leks on the permit area were conducted on 25 and 27 April. Field <br />personnel looked for displaying grouse while slowly driving around the permit area. Frequent <br />stops were made at vantage points to scan and listen for birds. <br />GOLDEN EAGLE NEST MONITORING <br />Known golden eagle nests within one mile of the permit area were checked for activity <br />on 25 and 27 April. Each day, a biologist observed the nests through a spotting scope from a <br />vehicle parked at a vantage point. Nests were watched until their status (active, inactive, <br />alternate, etc.) could be determined. <br />• <br />SANDHILL CRANES <br />No specific surveys were conducted for sandhill cranes in 2000. However, field <br />personnel watched and listened for crane activity while conducting other surveys and traveling <br />in the area. Particular attention was given to habitats most likely to attract cranes, such as <br />drainages and meadows. <br />RFSIII,TS <br />BIG GAME <br />The sky was partly cloudy during the aerial survey on I6 February. Snow coverage <br />was complete, but less than one foot deep. Most of that snow had accumulated in the four <br />days preceding the survey. In general, snow fall was rather minimal in the area during winter <br />1999-2000. Visibility during the survey was rated as good. <br /> <br />2000 Seneca 11 Mine Wildlife Monitoring Page 3 <br />