REP48885 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

RAPTOR NESTS • During the 26 January helicopter survey, the observers looked for raptor nests in trees and along cliffs. All nests seen were plotted on 1:24000 topographic maps. On 22, 23, and 24 April, known golden eagle nests on or within one mile of the permit area were checked for activity. Incidental to that monitoring, the observer looked for additional raptor nests in the area. Productivity at active eagle nests was checked on 17 June. SANDHILL CRANE ACTIVITY Surveys for sandhill crane use areas were conducted on 22, 23, and 24 April, and on 17 June. On those days, a biologist searched habitats most likely to attract cranes, such drainages and meadows. RESUi_.TS A_ND DISCUSSION BIG GAME The sky was overcast during the 26 January aerial survey. Approximately 18 inches of • snow fell during the 36 hours prior to the survey, and deep snow cover (i3-4 feet) was present over the entire area. Because the snow cover was so extensive and deep, visibility was rated as excellent during the survey. Expanded Survey Area A complete listing of all observations made during the aerial survey is given in Appendix I. All sightings are also plotted on Exhibit 1. A total of 1,479 elk (13.7 animals/miz) were seen during the survey. A few elk occurred as individuals, but most were in herds. The largest herd observed consisted of 338 animals; 23% of all elk seen. Because so many animals were in that herd, average herd size was inflated to 13.7 animals; the median herd size was 7. Elk were widely distributed over the entire survey area on 26 January, but were notably absent from the agricultural fields and grasslands in the north-central part of the area, and along the extreme northwest and southeast edges of the area (Exhibit 1). Also, few herds were seen on either the Seneca or Seneca II-W permit areas. • 1996 Seneca Il Mine Wildlife Monitoring Page 3