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BIG GAt~ SURVE.'YS <br />Aerial and ground survey techniques and existing DOW data were utilized <br />to determine the presence, abundance, and heavy-use areas of mule deer <br />and elk on the study area. <br />Aerial Surveys, Six aerial surveys were conducted using a Cessna 172 <br />fixed-wing aircraft during the period of 1 December 1979 to 8 March 1980 <br />to determine the presence, abundance, and area of winter use for iwle <br />deer and elk on the Seneca II site. Standardized aerial transects <br />(flight paths) were spaced at ~,~tile intervals and flown in a north- <br />south direction across the entire study area and a 2 mile peripheral <br />zone. An indicated air speed of 75-80 mph and an average altitude of <br />150'-200' above the ground was maintained during surveys. Due to varied <br />topography, the above-gxourad altitude varied among transects. However, <br />the flight paths, speed, and altitude of the aircraft were duplicated on all <br /> <br />transacts and from one census flight to another as much as weather con- <br />ditions permitted. • <br />An experienced observer, positioned an the starboard side of the aircraft, <br />recorded the number of all animals spotted according to species, habitat type, <br />and, if possible, sex and age. In addition to big game observations, the observer <br />also recorded the locations of all potential raptor and waterfowl nesting <br />habitat, mammalian predator and raptor sightings, the locations and use <br />areas of any domestic livestock and feral horses (if any) and other <br />pertinent wildlife sightings, Weather conditions and flight conditions <br />were documented for each aerial survey. Census flights were wnducted <br />only during times when spotting conditions were conducive to obtaining <br />the maximum amount of data (i.e., during peak daylight Yours, clear sky, <br />low to moderate wind). <br />Ground Studies <br />~Y big game observations (and other wildlife observa- <br />Lions) obtained during the field activities were listed on wildlife <br />observation forms. Big game use areas identified during aerial surveys <br />and through a oot~ilation of big game observation and existing DOW data <br />-8- <br /> <br />Revised 5-27-81 <br />