2011-09-29_PERMIT FILE - M2009056

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Mule Deer: Mule deer are medium -sized cervids with conspicuously long ears and a coarse coat. Mule deer occupy all ecosystems in Colorado from grasslands to alpine tundra. They reach their greatest densities in shrublands on rough, broken terrain, which provide abundant browse and cover. In the Rocky Mountains, fall and winter diets of mule deer consist of browse from a variety of trees and shrubs. During midwinter, deer move to lower elevations and forage on more protected south - facing exposures. Mule deer are found in the area in all habitat types. Highest densities are found in mountain shrub and mixed conifer communities at approximately 7,500 feet elevation. Mule deer in the area frequently use wet, hay meadows on private lands, especially in the spring. Deer densities are slowly increasing after several years of below average populations. Black Bear: A medium -sized bear, this species is Colorado's largest surviving carnivore. Color varies greatly, from black to pale brown and blond. Black bears can survive in practically any habitat that offers sufficient food and cover. In Colorado the species is most common in montane shrublands and forests, and subalpine forests at moderate elevations, especially in areas with well- developed stands of oakbrush or berry- producing shrubs such as serviceberry and chokecherry. The animals also occupy habitats ranging from the edge of the alpine tundra to the lower foothills and canyon country. Black bears are retiring and secretive animals, for the most part, typically staying close to rough topography or dense vegetation that provides escape cover. Black bear populations are difficult to estimate. Black bears are locally common in suitable habitats and occur in all habitat types throughout the area. Highest population densities occur in the montane shrublands. Mountain Lion: The mountain lion is the largest cat in the United States. Its color is brownish to reddish brown. Colorado individuals are among the largest representatives of the species. Mountain lions inhabit most ecosystems in Colorado and are very common in the Arkansas River valley. They are most common in rough, broken foothills and canyon country, often in association with montane forests, shrublands, and pinyon juniper woodlands. In Colorado, much of the best mountain lion habitat is at mid elevations, such as the foothills of the Front Range. In these habitats resident deer herds may be relatively sedentary and lions rarely make significant seasonal shifts in home range. Raptors: A variety of raptor species occur in the project area. The following species have been documented as occurring regularly: golden eagle, prairie falcon, red - tailed hawk, Coopers hawk, sharp - shinned hawk, goshawk and kestrel. The following species rarely occur due to the small amount of suitable habitat: Swainson's hawk, harrier, and osprey. Golden eagles are common in the area and nest in suitable habitats, primarily cliffs and rock outcroppings. Prairie falcons are widespread in the area utilizing cliff and rock habitats. Red - tailed hawks are the most common broad - winged hawk found in the area at all elevations and most habitat types. The forest hawks: Cooper's hawk, goshawk and sharp - shinned hawk occur in smaller numbers on public lands but would be found in forested landscapes. Environmental Effects Proposed Action Direct and Indirect Impacts: Lands adjacent to the project area have been subdivided and contain houses and roads that have fragmented and degraded the surrounding wildlife habitat. Although some species habituate and adapt to an exurban setting and associated disturbance, some do not. As a result, undeveloped areas, both private and public lands, have become increasingly important to wildlife species. Although there is some wildlife use of this parcel during spring and summer, the most use occurs during winter by elk. Elk tend to avoid areas within subdivision development and 33