HomeMy WebLinkAboutMARS LANDING 10.15.2019 - PDP190013 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 2 - ECS REPORTEcological Characterization Study
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drive
Fort Collins, Colorado
In Support of Article 3 General Development Standards,
Division 3.4 Environmental, Natural Area, Recreational and
Cultural Resource Protection Standards
City of Fort Collins, Colorado
prepared for:
Mark Johnson, RLA
8605 Explorer Dr. Suite 250
Colorado Springs, CO 8092
prepared by:
Wildlife Specialties LLC
PO Box 1231,
Lyons, CO 80540
October 15, 2019
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Table of Contents
Section / Title
Page
1.0 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................2
2.0 Environmental Setting ...............................................................................................................................................3
3.0 Proposed Development .............................................................................................................................................3
4.0 Survey Methods ..........................................................................................................................................................3
5.0 Ecological Characterization Report .......................................................................................................................4
5.1 Wildlife Use of the Area ......................................................................................................................................4
5.2 Wetlands ..................................................................................................................................................................5
5.3 Prominent Views ...................................................................................................................................................5
5.4 Native Vegetation ..................................................................................................................................................5
5.5 Significant Non-Native Tree Species ................................................................................................................5
5.6 Bank, Shoreline or High Water Mark ...............................................................................................................5
5.7 Sensitive or Specially Valued Species ..............................................................................................................5
5.8 Special Habitat Features ......................................................................................................................................6
5.9 Wildlife Movement Corridor ..............................................................................................................................6
5.10 General Ecological Function ............................................................................................................................6
5.11 Issues with Timing of Development Activities ............................................................................................7
5.12 Natural Habitat or Feature Requiring Mitigation .........................................................................................7
6.0 Conclusions & Recommendations ........................................................................................................................7
7.0 References...................................................................................................................................................................7
Appendix A ..................................................................................................................................................................... 29
List of Figures/Photos
Number / Title
Page
Figure 1. Project Location Map. .............................................................................................................................................. 9
Figure 2. October 2019 BTPD colony location and size. ............................................................................................... 10
Photos...........................................................................................................................................................................................
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List of Tables
Number / Title
Page
Table 1. Federal Threatened, Endangered and Candidate Plant and Wildlife Species Potentially
Occurring near Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO ................................................................................. 14
Table 2. Migratory Birds of Conservation Concern.......................................................................................................... 16
Table 3. Colorado Parks and Wildlife Endangered, Threatened, and Species of Special Concern ....................... 18
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species .................................................................................... 22
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1.0 Introduction
This Ecological Characterization Study (ECS) was prepared in support of proposed development south
of Skyway Drive and west of Mars Drives in Fort Collins, Colorado (Figure 1). Specifically, the
approximate 3.92 acre project area is located in the NE ¼ of the SE ¼, Section 11 of Township 6 North
Range 69 West of the sixth prime meridian.
Article 3 of the City of Fort Collins (City) General Development Standards section 3.4.1 Natural
Habitats and Features states that if development is proposed within five hundred (500) feet of an area or
feature identified as a natural habitat or feature on the city’s Natural Habitats and Features Inventory
Map, or if any portion of the development site possesses characteristics (including, without limitation,
wetlands, riparian areas or foothills forest) which would have supported their inclusion on the Natural
Habitats and Features Inventory Map, and such areas are discovered during site evaluation and/or
reconnaissance associated with the development review process then a comprehensive ecological
characterization study of the entire property must be prepared by a qualified consultant and submitted
to the City for review.
Article 3 of the City of Fort Collins (City) General Development Standards section 3.4.1 Natural
Habitats and Features identifies the following Natural Communities or Habitats:
a) Aquatic (e.g., rivers, streams, lakes, ponds);
b) Wetland and wet meadow;
c) Native grassland;
d) Riparian forest;
e) Urban plains forest;
f) Riparian shrubland;
g) Foothills shrubland; and
h) Foothills forest.
Article 3 of the General Development Standards section 3.4.1 Natural Habitats and Features identifies
the following Special Features:
a) Significant remnants of native plant communities;
b) Potential habitats and known locations of rare, threatened or endangered species of plants;
c) Potential habitats and known locations of rare, threatened or endangered species of wildlife;
d) Raptor habitat features, including nest sites, communal roost sites and key concentration areas;
e) Concentration areas for nesting and migratory shorebirds and waterfowl;
f) Migratory songbird concentration areas;
g) Key nesting areas for grassland birds;
h) Fox and coyote dens;
i) Mule deer winter concentration areas;
j) Prairie dog colonies one (1) acre or greater in size;
k) Concentration areas for rare, migrant or resident butterflies;
l) Areas of high terrestrial or aquatic insect diversity;
m) Areas of significant geological or paleontological interest; and
n) Irrigation ditches that serve as wildlife corridors.
The project area includes a portion of the North Louden Ditch (a wildlife movement corridor
previously identified by the City) and has a Black-tailed Prairie Dog (prairie dogs - Cynomys
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ludovicianus) colony greater than one (1) acre in size. This ECS is in response to the presence of the
North Louden Ditch and the prairie dogs within the project area.
2.0 Environmental Setting
The project area is in south Fort Collins and is part of a strip of land between South College Avenue
and Gateway Center Drive (east and west respectively), and Skyway Drive and West Trilby Road
(north and south respectively) which has historically been used for livestock grazing (primarily cattle
and horses). A large self-storage facility is located east of the project area and residential development
is to the north and west with open lands located to the south. Specifically, Skyway Drive defines the
northern boundary, Mars Drive to the east, non-native disturbed uplands to the south and Gateway
Center Drive to the west. The project area was historically converted from native shortgrass prairie into
pasture. The project area is fallow land that is currently not grazed by livestock with no native plant
communities present. Vegetation within the project area is dominated by invasive non-native plant
species including crested wheat grass (Agropyron cristatum), smooth brome (Bromus inermis), field
bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), and cheatgrass (downy brome –
Bromus tectorum). Leafy spurge is designated as a “List B” species on the Colorado Noxious Weed
Act. It is required to be eradicated, contained, or suppressed depending on the local infestations.
No wetlands, wetland plants, or habitats associated with wetlands as described by the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers (Corps) are found within the project area. To determine wetland boundaries, the City
follows Land Use Code 3.4.1(D)(2) that allows utilization of the "standards and guidelines and/or
professional recommendations of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, and/or the Colorado Division of Wildlife in
establishing such boundaries. At the time of both surveys there was no flowing or standing water in the
North Louden Ditch and the plant community within the ditch was comprised of upland plant species.
3.0 Proposed Development
The site, civil and landscape plans have not yet been submitted for City Engineering and Development
Review. Earth work and construction are not yet scheduled and the duration of time necessary for
construction has not been determined.
4.0 Survey Methods
The project area was visited the morning of June 28 and October 14, 2019 by Jerry Powell, Certified
Ecologist, to document wildlife use and habitat, the current plant community, and identification of
Natural Habitats or Features. A pedestrian survey via north-south running transects was completed to as
closely as possible document any sensitive features or habitats and to count prairie dog burrows/holes.
Digital photos of the project area were taken for inclusion in this ECS. The boundaries of the active
Black-tailed Prairie Dog colonies (north and south of the North Louden Ditch) were marked on October
14, 2019 by walking the edge of the active colony (determined by the presence of burrows and areas
where the vegetation is short) and using a Global Positioning System (GPS) to record the boundaries.
The resulting information was used in ArcGIS to produce the estimate of the size of each colony as
shown in Figure 2.
Sources of information on the habitat requirements for wildlife species presented in the above lists come
from the 2
nd
Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (Wickersham 2016), Mammals of Colorado 2
nd
Edition
(Armstrong et al. 2011), Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado (Hammerson, 1999), and Colorado’s
4
Little Fish (Woodling, 1985). Online resources consisted of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website,
NatureServe (2018), USDA Forest Service species technical assessments, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service listing documents. Likelihood of presence or absence was based on each species specific habitat
requirements and habitat types found within the project area as well as proximity to human activity.
Wildlife species designated as federally listed threatened, endangered and candidate species (as well as
Designated Critical Habitats) with potential habitat near the project area was determined via the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service’s Information, Planning and Conservation (IPaC) website (USFWS 2019 –
accessed July 2, 2019, Appendix A) The IPaC tool also identified migratory birds of conservation
concern potentially present within the project area; and the Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s (CPW 2019)
list of state threatened, endangered, and species of special concern.
5.0 Ecological Characterization Report
The following subsections are presented in the order identified by the City in Article 3 of the City of
Fort Collins General Development Standards section 3.4.1(D) (a-l).
5.1 Wildlife Use of the Area
Wildlife use of the area is limited because of the location of the project area, surrounding land uses, and
non-native low diversity plant community. Wildlife species capable of existing within or using the
project area are limited to those species that are either habitat generalists capable of existing in modified
urban environments (e.g. prairie dogs), or species which use a wide variety habitats for foraging over a
large area (e.g. Red-tailed Hawk – Buteo jamaicensis).
The dominant mammalian wildlife species within the project area is the Black-tailed Prairie Dog.
Numerous burrows are located within the project area boundaries. The area north of the ditch has the
highest density of burrows/holes with approximately 57 present; the area south of the ditch contained
significantly less burrows/holes with approximately 34 present. These two areas are approximately 0.94
and 0.44 acres in size (north and south respectively) totaling approximately 1.38 acres. Photo 1 shows
the area north of the ditch and Photo 2 shows the area south of the ditch. In addition to the prairie dogs
on site, prairie dogs are present south of the project area and west of Gateway Center Drive. Some of the
burrows/holes found within the project area are used by Eastern Cottontail Rabbits (Sylvilagus
floridanus) which were observed throughout the project area. These prairie dogs and rabbits support
predators (e.g., eagles and hawks) and species that are dependent on prairie dogs (e.g., burrowing owls).
No other mammals or their sign (scat, tracks, etc.) was observed. It is probable however that several
small mammalian carnivores/scavengers including Coyotes (Canis latrans), Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes),
Raccoons (Procyon lotor), and Striped Skunks (Mephitis mephitis) use the project area as part of their
home ranges.
The small stand of trees located west of the northwest corner of the project area provides suitable avian
nesting and foraging habitat. Species observed within this area include American Robin (Turdus
migratorius), Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto – a non-native invasive species), Lesser
Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria), and Western Kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis). Though they have not
observed, it is likely that based on the available habitat both Vesper Sparrows (Pooecetes gramineus)
and Western Meadowlarks (Sturnella neglecta) could nest within the project area.
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No raptor nests occur within the project area. The project area does provide suitable nesting habitat for
raptors in the form of the one large Plains Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) tree on the west side near the
North Louden Ditch. Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) nest in the small clump of Plains
Cottonwood trees located in the SW corner of College and Skyway. No other evidence of wildlife use
of the project area was noted and no additional wildlife was observed within the project area.
Aside from the North Louden Ditch and the 1.38 acre Black-tailed Prairie Dog colony the project area
does not feature any unique (e.g. fens) or critical (e.g. mule deer winter range) wildlife habitat. There
are no bodies of water for use as waterfowl concentration areas.
5.2 Wetlands
No wetlands as described by the Corps are present within the project area. Photo 3 shows the upland
plant community found within the North Louden Ditch. No wetland plants occur within the ditch.
5.3 Prominent Views
Development of the project area would not impact any prominent views from other nearby properties.
5.4 Native Vegetation
No intact native vegetation communities are present within the project area. Remnant native species are
present, but the site is a smooth brome (Bromus inermis) dominated upland.
5.5 Significant Non-Native Tree Species
The City defines significant trees in the Land Use Code as trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH)
of six inches and greater. The project area does not contain non-native tree species of this size.
5.6 Bank, Shoreline or High Water Mark
No perennial streams, bodies of water, or wetlands are present within the project area. Therefore, there is
not bank, shoreline, or high water mark within the project area.
5.7 Sensitive or Specially Valued Species
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Information for Planning & Conservation (IPaC) website identified nine
vertebrate species that have historically or presently have the potential to occur within or near the project
area. Table 1 lists these species and indicates their potential to occur on the project site. The project site
does not provide habitat for any of the federally listed species. Additionally, water depletions (aside
from historically allocated) will not occur that would impact any of the Laramie River/Platte River
system listed fish species.
The project area provides no habitat for any of the species listed in Table 1. Additionally, there is no
federally Designated Critical Habitat within or near the project area.
The IPAC list of Trust Resources identified 11 Migratory Birds of Conservation Concern that could
potentially breed within the project area (Table 2). Based on available habitat types within the project
area, only the Western Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) has suitable habitat within the project area.
Species identified by the CPW (CPW 2019) as state sensitive, their habitat requirements, and their
potential for occurrence within the project area are presented in Table 3. Based on available habitat types
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within the project area, one species, the Black-tailed Prairie Dog currently occupies the project area. The
Burrowing Owl has potential habitat within the project area; suitable habitat is not present for any other
species presented in Table 3.
The project area contains suitable occupied habitat for the Black-tailed Prairie Dog and potential habitat
for the Burrowing Owl. No other sensitive species identified by the State of Colorado in Table 3 have
suitable habitat within the project area.
The City of Fort Collins list of wildlife species of concern is listed in Table 4. Table 4 provides these
species and likelihood of occurrence within the project area.
Of the species listed in Table 4, only the Black-tailed prairie dog currently is present within the project
area. The one large Plains Cottonwood tree does provide potential nesting habitat for the Swainson’s
Hawk (Buteo swainsoni). No other species or habitat for species listed in Table 4 is found within the
project area.
The project area also does not provide any key wildlife production areas, wintering areas and migratory
feeding areas for waterfowl; key use areas for wading birds and shorebirds; key use areas for migrant
songbirds; key nesting areas for grassland birds; fox and coyote dens; mule deer winter concentration
areas; key areas for rare, migrant or resident butterflies; areas of high terrestrial or aquatic insect;
remnant native prairie habitat; mixed foothill shrubland; foothill ponderosa pine forest; plains
cottonwood riparian woodlands; or any wetlands.
5.8 Special Habitat Features
The project area includes a portion of the North Louden Ditch (a wildlife movement corridor
previously identified by the City) and has a Black-tailed Prairie Dog (prairie dogs - Cynomys
ludovicianus) colony greater than one (1) acre in size. Both of these are identified as Special Habitat
Features.
5.9 Wildlife Movement Corridor
Often times irrigation ditches mimic natural drainage features by providing water for the establishment
of riparian habitat. The diversity created by the presence of the water in the plant community is
reflected in the animal community. Wildlife occupy different niches and niche overlap is reduced by
diversity in structure (tall and short plants) and use (day versus night) within the riparian corridors. The
North Louden Ditch within the project area has no riparian habitat (Photo 3). It provides extremely
limited cover and forage for wildlife. Additionally, there is no viable habitat east or south of the project
area for wildlife following the ditch to get to. However, the North Louden Ditch may act as a
movement corridor within this general area. The project area, because of its location in the City and the
lack of natural movement corridors between areas of higher quality habitat, does not contain any
seasonal (i.e. migration) wildlife movement corridors.
5.10 General Ecological Function
The general ecological function of the project area is to provide habitat for species capable of existing
in a very modified and urban environment that is void of native plants and communities. The
dominance of invasive non-native plant species diminishes the general ecological function and value of
the project area, but it is still important to those species currently using the project area.
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5.11 Issues with Timing of Development Activities
No nests etc. were found within the project area that would require a seasonal or daily timing restriction
of development activities. No clearing, grubbing, or general earth work should occur without a nest
clearance survey if these activities occur during the avian nesting season of March 1 through August
31.
The presence of the Black-tailed Prairie Dogs does create potential nesting habitat for the Western
Burrowing Owl. Federal and state laws prohibit the harming or killing of Burrowing Owls and the
destruction of active nests. Because Burrowing Owls often hide in burrows when alarmed, it is not
practical to haze the birds away from prairie dog towns prior to prairie dog control actions or
construction activity. Because Burrowing Owls will retire into burrows when alarmed, it is possible to
inadvertently kill burrowing owls during prairie dog control or during earth moving for construction. If
development activities (including Prairie Dog control) occur between March 15 and October 31 a
Burrowing Owl survey, per Colorado Parks and Wildlife protocol, will be necessary. If Prairie Dog
control or earth moving activities occur out of the March – November period surveys will not be
necessary. If Prairie Dog control occurs out of the March – November period but earth work does not
occur until during the survey period, a survey will need to be completed to ensure that no Burrowing
Owls are using burrows within 150 feet of the project boundary. If Burrowing Owls are located greater
than150 feet from the edge of disturbance no limitations are placed on what type of and where work
can be completed.
5.12 Natural Habitat or Feature Requiring Mitigation
There will be approximately 1.5 acres of impacts to lower ecological value uplands associated with the
North Louden Ditch serving as a wildlife movement corridor, isolated patches of native grassland or
shrubland, and the naturalized drainage channel associated with the North Louden Ditch. Additionally,
mitigation for 0.014 acres of wetland impacts (wetland identified by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
wetland criteria) and the 1.38 acres of Black-tailed Prairie Dog colony.
6.0 Conclusions & Recommendations
The project area contains two special habitats or features as defined by the City Land Use Code. The
project area provides low quality wildlife habitat in an increasingly urban setting surrounded by
residential and commercial development. Development of the project area will not impact special
habitats or features, aside from those identified herein, or impact any wildlife species, excluding the
Black-tailed Prairie Dog, identified in the above lists. Development of the project area will not lead to
a decreasing population trend or require further protections for species addressed herein.
Prairie dog management is dictated by the City, available management options should be discussed
with the City to determine what action is appropriate.
7.0 References
Armstrong, D.M., Fitzgerald, J.P., and C.A. Meaney. 2011. Mammals of Colorado. 2
nd
Ed., Denver
Mus. Nat. Hist. and Univ. Press of Colorado. Niwot, CO. 620 pp.
Hammerson, G.A. 1999. Amphibians and reptiles in Colorado. Univ. Press of Colorado and Colo.
Div. Wildl. Niwot, CO. 484 pp.
8
Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership. 2016. 2
nd
Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Breeding Bird
Partnership and the Colorado Parks and Wildlife. 727 pp.
Woodling, J. 1985. Colorado's little fish: a guide to the minnows and other lesser known fishes in
the state of Colorado. CDOW Denver, CO. 77 pp.
Source: Getmapping, Esri, Aerogrid, DigitalGlobe, IGN, GeoEye, IGP, swisstopo, i-cubed, and USDA, the GIS USGS, User AEX, Community
Skyway Drive
S. College Avenue
Figure 1. Project Location
¯
Prepared www.wildlifespecialtiesllc.By: Wildlife Specialties com LLC
Legend
Project Area
1 Scale: Inch = 1:249 3,000 Feet
July 2019
Source: Getmapping, Esri, Aerogrid, DigitalGlobe, IGN, GeoEye, IGP, swisstopo, i-cubed, and USDA, the GIS USGS, User AEX, Community
Skyway Drive
Mars Drive
Figure BTPD Colony 2. October Location 2019
and Size
¯
1 Scale: Inch = 1:83 1,000 Feet
Oct. 2019
Prepared www.wildlifespecialtiesllc.By: Wildlife Specialties com LLC
Legend
Oct 2019 BTPD Colony
Project Area
0.94 Acres
0.44 Acres
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Photos
Photo 1: Looking south from the near the northern boundary toward the southern end of the
project area. Note how short the grasses are from grazing by Prairie Dogs.
12
Photo 2: Looking at the southern end of the project area from the North Louden Ditch. Note
tall crested wheat grass less heavily grazed by Prairie Dogs.
13
Photo 3: Looking at the North Louden Ditch plant community. Note that it is comprised of
upland species wetland obligate species are present. Also note the lack of a high water line
or debris suggesting that the ditch has flowed recently.
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Table 1. Federal Threatened, Endangered and Candidate Plant and Wildlife Species Potentially
Occurring near Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Scientific Name
Common Name
Federal
Status
Habitat
Requirements
Potential for
Occurrence
Flowering Plants
Gaura neomexicana var.
coloradensis
Colorado
Butterfly Plant
T Wetland habitats
along meandering
stream channels
among native
grasses.
No potential for
occurrence.
Phacelia formosula North Park
Phacelia
E Found only in North
Park of Jackson
County.
No potential for
occurrence.
Spiranthes diluvialis Ute ladies'-
tresses Orchid
T Commonly
associated with
alluvial banks,
floodplains, or ox-
bows associated
with perennial
streams
No potential for
occurrence.
Platanthera praeclara Western Prairie
Fringed Orchid
T Water-related
activities/use in the
N. Platte, S. Platte
and Laramie River
Basins may affect
listed species in
Nebraska.
No potential for
occurrence.
Fishes
Oncorhynchus clarki ssp.
stomias
Greenback
Cutthroat Trout
T High altitude cold
streams.
No potential for
15
Table 1. Federal Threatened, Endangered and Candidate Plant and Wildlife Species Potentially
Occurring near Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Scientific Name
Common Name
Federal
Status
Habitat
Requirements
Potential for
Occurrence
along the Arkansas
River valley.
Grus americana Whooping Crane E Breed in shallow,
grassy wetlands
interspersed with
grasslands or
scattered evergreens,
may use crop fields
for foraging.
No potential for
occurrence.
Mammals
Zapus hudsonious
preblei
Preble’s Meadow
Jumping Mouse
T Riparian areas with
lush vegetation.
No potential for
occurrence.
Gulo gulo luscus North American
Wolverine
PT High altitude
spruce-fir forest and
alpine areas with
little human
disturbance.
No potential for
occurrence.
Lynx canadensis Canada Lynx T High altitude
spruce-fir forests.
No potential for
occurrence.
Insects
Capnia arapahoe Arapahoe
Snowfly
C Cold, clean, well-
oxygenated streams
and rivers
No potential for
occurrence.
E = Endangered; T = Threatened; PT = Proposed Threatened; C = Candidate for Federal listing.
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Table 2. Migratory Birds of Conservation Concern
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species
Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
Bald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Areas along rivers or lakes with
large trees for nesting and
roosting.
None
Burrowing Owl
Athene cunicularia
Open areas with suitable small
mammal burrows.
Suitable habitat present.
Cassin’s Sparrow
Aimophila cassinii
Heavily grazed grasslands of
eastern Colorado where cholla
cactus, yucca, rabbitbrush, or sand
sage provides shrubby overstory
(Wickersham 2016).
None
Golden Eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
Open and semi-open country
featuring native vegetation. Avoid
developed areas and uninterrupted
stretches of forest. Found
primarily in mountains up to
12,000 feet, canyonlands, rimrock
terrain, and riverside cliffs and
bluffs. Nest on cliffs and steep
escarpments in grassland,
chapparal, shrubland, forest, and
other vegetated areas.
None
Lark Bunting
Calamospiza melanocorys
Heavily grazed grasslands of
eastern Colorado where cholla
cactus, yucca, rabbitbrush, or sand
sage provides shrubby overstory
(Wickersham 2016).
None
Lesser Yellowlegs
Tringa flavipes
Breeds only in Alaska through
Quebec.
None
Long-billed Curlew
Numenius americanus
Expansive blocks of native
shortgrass prairie.
None
Semipalmated Sandpiper
Calidris pusilla
Breeds in sub-arctic tundra and
overwinters along the coasts of
17
Table 2. Migratory Birds of Conservation Concern
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species
Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
mountain parks – usually distant
from trees.
18
Table 3. Colorado Parks and Wildlife Endangered, Threatened, and Species of Special Concern
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Status* Habitat Requirements
Potential for
Occurrence
Fish
Arkansas Darter
Etheostoma cragini
ST
Found only in tributaries of the
Arkansas River.
None
Brassy Minnow
Hybognathus hankinsoni
ST
Found in S. Platte and
Republican Rivers.
None
Colorado River Cutthroat Trout
Oncorhynchus clarki pleuriticus
SC
Found in the Colorado River
Basin.
None
Colorado Roundtail Chub
Gila robusta
SC
A large river fish found in
western Colorado.
None
Common Shiner
Luxilus cornutus
ST
Found in tributary streams of the
S. Platte River.
None
Flathead Chub
Platygobio gracilus
SC
Found in mainstems of turbid
streams and rivers.
None
Iowa Darter
Etheostoma exile
SC
Found in some plains streams in
northeastern Colorado.
None
Lake Chub
Couesius plumbeus
SE
Extirpated in Colorado
(Woodling 1985).
None
Mountain Sucker
Catostomus playtrhynchus
SC
Found in smaller rivers and
streams in northwestern
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Table 3. Colorado Parks and Wildlife Endangered, Threatened, and Species of Special Concern
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Status* Habitat Requirements
Potential for
Occurrence
Bald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
SC Large, mature cottonwoods or
pines near large water bodies.
None
Burrowing Owl
Athene cunicularia
ST Nest in rodent burrows in
grasslands, shrublands, deserts,
and grassy urban areas (golf
courses).
Suitable habitat
present.
Columbian Sharp-Tailed Grouse
Tympanuchus phasianellus
columbianus
SC Sagebrush shrublands. None
Ferruginous Hawk
Buteo regalis
SC Vast expanses of ungrazed or
lightly grazed grassland and
shrubland and shortgrass prairie.
None
Greater Sage-Grouse
Centrocercus urophasianus
SC Sagebrush shrublands in
northwestern Colorado.
None
Greater Sandhill Crane
Grus canadensis tabida
SC Breed in wetland habitats,
particularly flooded fields and
beaver ponds.
None
Gunnison Sage-Grouse
Centrocercus minimus
SC Sage communities in the
Gunnison Basin.
None
Lesser Prairie-Chicken
Tympanuchus pallidicinctus
ST Optimal habitat is midgrass to
tallgrass prairie for nests and
winter cover.
None
Long-Billed Curlew
Numenius americanus
SC Shortgrass prairie. None
Mountain Plover
Charadrius montanus
SC Grazed shortgrass prairie and
fallow fields.
None
Plains Sharp-Tailed Grouse
20
Table 3. Colorado Parks and Wildlife Endangered, Threatened, and Species of Special Concern
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Status* Habitat Requirements
Potential for
Occurrence
semidesert shrublands, and
grasslands.
River Otter
Lontra canadensis
ST Large waterways throughout
Colorado.
None
Swift Fox
Vulpes velox
SC Short and mid-grass prairies of
the Great Plains.
None
Townsend’s Big-eared Bat
Corynorhinus townsendii
SC Occupies semidesert shrublands,
pinon-juniper woodlands, and
open montane forests.
None
Amphibians/Reptiles
Boreal Toad
Bufo boreas boreas
SE High altitude wetlands, ponds,
etc.
None
Couch's Spadefoot
Scaphiopus couchii
SC Eastern Colorado plains. None
Great Plains Narrowmouth Toad
Gastrophryne olivacea
SC Extreme southeastern Colorado. None
Northern Cricket Frog
Acris crepitans
SC Found in Yuma, Weld and
Morgan Counties at elevations
between 3,500–3,600 feet.
None
Northern Leopard Frog
Rana pipiens
SC Wet meadows and the banks of
and shallows of marshes, ponds,
lakes, streams, irrigation ditches.
None
Plains Leopard Frog
Rana blairi
SC Eastern Colorado and
southeastern Colorado.
None
Triploid Checkered Whiptail
Cnemidophorus neotesselatus
SC Foothills of the Rocky
Mountains in Fremont County
eastward to Pueblo and Stone
City in Pueblo County.
None
21
Table 3. Colorado Parks and Wildlife Endangered, Threatened, and Species of Special Concern
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Status* Habitat Requirements
Potential for
Occurrence
Phrynosoma modestum Otero County.
Massasauga
Sistrurus catenatus
SC Occurs in shortgrass prairie
habitats in southeastern
Colorado.
None
Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis
SC Restricted to aquatic, wetland
and riparian habitats at
elevations below 6,000 feet:
seldom found at isolated ponds.
None
*SE = State Endangered. ST = State Threatened. SC = State Special Concern (not a statutory
category)
22
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
Fish
There is no aquatic habitat within the project area, thus there are no fish present.
Birds
American Bittern
Botaurus lentiginosus
Vast expanses of ungrazed
or lightly grazed grassland
and shrubland with varied
topography, including hills,
ridges and valleys.
None
American Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus anatum
Nests on ledges of high
cliffs.
None
American White Pelican
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
Nest on islands.
None
Bald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Large, mature cottonwoods
or pines near large water
bodies.
None
Barrow’s Goldeneye
Bucephala islandica
Nests in a suitable nest
cavity near water.
None
Black Tern
Chlidonias niger
Prefer marsh complexes of
at least 50 acres with open
water and fields for feeding.
None
Black-necked Stilt
Himantopus mexicanus
Black-necked stilts are
wetland obligates.
None
Bobolink
Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Grassland obligates
associated with native
mixed-grass and tallgrass
prairie.
None
Brewer’s Sparrow
Spizella breweri
Sagebrush shrublands. None
Burrowing Owl
Athene cunicularia
Nest in rodent burrows in
grasslands, shrublands,
23
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
Calcarius ornatus Great Plains; found only in
northern Colorado.
Ferruginous Hawk
Buteo regalis
Vast expanses of ungrazed
or lightly grazed grassland
and shrubland and shortgrass
prairie.
None
Flammulated Owl
Otus flammeolus
Depend on cavities for
nesting, open forests for
catching insects, and brush
or dense foliage for roosting
at altitudes between 6,000 –
10,000 ft.
None
Forster’s Tern
Sterna forsteri
Most often associated with
emergent marsh habitat.
None
Golden Eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
Golden Eagles live in open
and semi-open country
featuring native vegetation
across most of the Northern
Hemisphere. They avoid
developed areas and
uninterrupted stretches of
forest. They are found
primarily in mountains up to
12,000 feet, canyonlands,
rimrock terrain, and
riverside cliffs and bluffs.
Golden Eagles nest on cliffs
and steep escarpments in
grassland, chapparal,
shrubland, forest, and other
vegetated areas.
None
Grasshopper Sparrow
Ammodramus savannarum
Open grasslands and prairies
with patchy bare ground.
None
Greater Sandhill Crane
Grus canadensis tabida
Breed in wetland habitats,
particularly flooded fields
and beaver ponds.
None
Lark Bunting
Calamospiza melanocorys
24
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
Least Tern
(interior population)
Sterna antillarum
Rivers with broad exposed
sand bars. None
Lewis’s Woodpecker
Melanerpes lewis
Open pine forests, burnt over
area that provide snags and
stumps, riparian areas and
pinyon/juniper woodlands.
None
Loggerhead Shrike
Lanius ludovicianus
Shortgrass prairie. None
Long-Billed Curlew
Numenius americanus
Shortgrass prairie.
None
Mccown’s Longspur
Calcarius mccownii
Endemic to the shortgrass
prairie ecosystem; need
heavily grazed cattle
pastures with low density
vegetation (Wickersham
2016).
None
Mountain Plover
Charadrius montanus
Breeds on open plains at
moderate elevations. Winters
in short-grass plains and
fields, plowed fields, and
sandy deserts.
None
Northern Bobwhite
Colinus virginianus
Often found in riparian
habitats.
None
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilis
Predominantly uses
ponderosa pine, but will also
use Douglas fir, various
pines and aspens.
None
Northern Harrier
Circus cyaneus
Spring & fall migrant in
western valleys mountain
parks, and eastern plains in
CO inhabiting grasslands,
agricultural areas, marshes
& tundra in fall; 3,500-
25
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
communities.
Pinyon Jay
Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus
Pinyon woodlands.
None
Piping Plover
Charadrius melodus
Only breeds in southeastern
Colorado at large reservoirs.
None
Plains Sharp-Tailed Grouse
Tympanuchus phasianellus
jamesii
Rolling hills with scrub oak
thickets and grassy glades. None
Prairie Falcon
Falco mexicanus
Grasslands, shrub-steppe,
deserts, and other open areas
of the West up to about
10,000 feet elevation.
None
Rufous Hummingbird
Selasphorus rufus
Migrates south down the
Rocky Mountains in late
summer and early fall after
leaving northern breeding
grounds.
None
Short-eared Owl
Asio flammeus
Open habitats including
grasslands, marsh edges,
shrub-steppes, and
agricultural lands.
None
Snowy Egret
Egretta thula
Nest in colonies in trees and
shrubs, forage in aquatic
habitats.
None
Swainson’s Hawk
Buteo swainsoni
Associated with croplands,
shelterbelts, and other
agricultural lands.
Potential nesting habitat present.
Upland Sandpiper
Bartramia longicauda
Breed on native prairie,
mountain meadows, and
blueberry barrens.
None
Veery
26
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
Tringa semipalmata restricted to Jackson County
and the San Luis Valley.
Willow Flycatcher
Empidonax trailii
Riparian thickets in the
foothills and montane zones
and willow-dominated open
valleys and mountain parks
– usually distant from trees.
None
Wilson’s Phalarope
Phalaropus tricolor
Emergent Wetlands.
None
Mammals
Abert’s Squirrel
Sciurus aberti
Ponderosa pine forests. None
Bighorn Sheep
Ovis canadensis canadensis
Rocky areas with cliffs.
None
Bison
Bison bison
Vast expanses of unbroken
prairie.
None
Black-footed Ferret
Mustela nigripes
Prairie dog colonies at least
50 acres in size.
None
Black-tailed Prairie Dog
Cynomys ludovicianus
Open prairie grasslands,
disturbed areas, fallow and
mowed agriculture fields.
Present within project area.
Dwarf Shrew
Sorex nanus
In Colorado found in the
Southern Rocky Mountains
at elevations above 5,500 ft.
None
Fringed Myotis
Myotis thysanodes
Coniferous woodlands and
shrublands below 7,500 ft.
rocky outcroppings in mid-
elevation ponderosa pine,
pinyon/juniper, oak, &
mixed conifer woodlands,
grasslands, deserts, &
shrublands.
None
Hoary Bat
27
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
Olive-backed Pocket Mouse
:erognathus fasciatus
In Colorado restricted to
grasslands along the western
margin of the plains and to
shrub-grasslands of the
northwestern part of the
state.
None
Preble’s Meadow Jumping
Mouse
Zapus hudsonius prebleii
Riparian habitats with
appropriate shrub
component and available
uplands for foraging.
None
River Otter
Lontra canadensis
Large waterways throughout
Colorado.
None
Sagebrush Vole
Lemmiscus curtatus
Found in northwestern
Colorado in sagebrush
dominated habitats.
None
Swift Fox
Vulpes velox
Short and mid-grass prairies
of the Great Plains.
None
Townsend’s Big-eared Bat
Corynorhinus townsendii
Occupies semidesert
shrublands, pinon-juniper
woodlands, and open
montane forests.
None
Amphibians/Reptiles
Northern Leopard Frog
Rana pipiens
Wet meadows and the banks
of and shallows of marshes,
ponds, lakes, streams,
irrigation ditches.
None
Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis
Restricted to aquatic,
wetland and riparian habitats
at elevations below 6,000
feet: seldom found at
isolated ponds.
None
28
Table 4. City of Fort Collins List of Sensitive Wildlife Species
SW Corner of Skyway and Mars Drives, Fort Collins, CO
Species Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence
Terrapene ornata prairie in eastern Colorado.
29
Appendix A
USFWS IPaC Report for Skyway and Mars Drives
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Colorado Ecological Services Field Office
Denver Federal Center
P.O. Box 25486
Denver, CO 80225-0486
Phone: (303) 236-4773 Fax: (303) 236-4005
http://www.fws.gov/coloradoES
http://www.fws.gov/platteriver
In Reply Refer To:
Consultation Code: 06E24000-2018-SLI-1320
Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306
Project Name: Skyway Townhomes
Subject: Updated list of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed
project location, and/or may be affected by your proposed project
To Whom It May Concern:
The enclosed species list identifies threatened, endangered, proposed and candidate species, as
well as proposed and final designated critical habitat, that may occur within the boundary of your
proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. The species list fulfills the
requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) under section 7(c) of the
Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).
New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of
species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could change this list. Please feel free to
contact us if you need more current information or assistance regarding the potential impacts to
federally proposed, listed, and candidate species and federally designated and proposed critical
habitat. Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of the regulations implementing section 7 of the
Act, the accuracy of this species list should be verified after 90 days. This verification can be
completed formally or informally as desired. The Service recommends that verification be
completed by visiting the ECOS-IPaC website at regular intervals during project planning and
implementation for updates to species lists and information. An updated list may be requested
through the ECOS-IPaC system by completing the same process used to receive the enclosed list.
The purpose of the Act is to provide a means whereby threatened and endangered species and the
ecosystems upon which they depend may be conserved. Under sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2) of the
Act and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 402 et seq.), Federal agencies are required to
utilize their authorities to carry out programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered
July 02, 2019
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 2
species and to determine whether projects may affect threatened and endangered species and/or
designated critical habitat.
A Biological Assessment is required for construction projects (or other undertakings having
similar physical impacts) that are major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the
human environment as defined in the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)
(c)). For projects other than major construction activities, the Service suggests that a biological
evaluation similar to a Biological Assessment be prepared to determine whether the project may
affect listed or proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat. Recommended
contents of a Biological Assessment are described at 50 CFR 402.12.
If a Federal agency determines, based on the Biological Assessment or biological evaluation, that
listed species and/or designated critical habitat may be affected by the proposed project, the
agency is required to consult with the Service pursuant to 50 CFR 402. In addition, the Service
recommends that candidate species, proposed species and proposed critical habitat be addressed
within the consultation. More information on the regulations and procedures for section 7
consultation, including the role of permit or license applicants, can be found in the "Endangered
Species Consultation Handbook" at:
http://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/TOC-GLOS.PDF
Please be aware that bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle
Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668 et seq.), and projects affecting these species may require
development of an eagle conservation plan (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/
eagle_guidance.html). Additionally, wind energy projects should follow the wind energy
guidelines (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/) for minimizing impacts to migratory birds and
bats.
Guidance for minimizing impacts to migratory birds for projects including communications
towers (e.g., cellular, digital television, radio, and emergency broadcast) can be found at: http://
www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/towers.htm; http://
www.towerkill.com; and http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/
comtow.html.
We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages
Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project
planning to further the purposes of the Act. Please include the Consultation Tracking Number in
the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project
that you submit to our office.
Attachment(s):
▪ Official Species List
▪ USFWS National Wildlife Refuges and Fish Hatcheries
▪ Migratory Birds
▪ Wetlands
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 3
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 1
Official Species List
This list is provided pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and fulfills the
requirement for Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary of the Interior information whether
any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of a proposed
action".
This species list is provided by:
Colorado Ecological Services Field Office
Denver Federal Center
P.O. Box 25486
Denver, CO 80225-0486
(303) 236-4773
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 2
Project Summary
Consultation Code: 06E24000-2018-SLI-1320
Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306
Project Name: Skyway Townhomes
Project Type: DEVELOPMENT
Project Description: residential development
Project Location:
Approximate location of the project can be viewed in Google Maps: https://
www.google.com/maps/place/40.50115032914786N105.0804557109165W
Counties: Larimer, CO
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 3
Endangered Species Act Species
There is a total of 14 threatened, endangered, or candidate species on this species list.
Species on this list should be considered in an effects analysis for your project and could include
species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain fish may appear on the species
list because a project could affect downstream species. Note that 5 of these species should be
considered only under certain conditions.
IPaC does not display listed species or critical habitats under the sole jurisdiction of NOAA
Fisheries , as USFWS does not have the authority to speak on behalf of NOAA and the
Department of Commerce.
See the "Critical habitats" section below for those critical habitats that lie wholly or partially
within your project area under this office's jurisdiction. Please contact the designated FWS office
if you have questions.
1. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an
office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of
Commerce.
Mammals
NAME STATUS
Canada Lynx Lynx canadensis
Population: Wherever Found in Contiguous U.S.
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3652
Threatened
North American Wolverine Gulo gulo luscus
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5123
Proposed
Threatened
Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse Zapus hudsonius preblei
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4090
Threatened
1
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 4
Birds
NAME STATUS
Least Tern Sterna antillarum
Population: interior pop.
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
This species only needs to be considered under the following conditions:
▪ Water-related activities/use in the N. Platte, S. Platte and Laramie River Basins may affect
listed species in Nebraska.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8505
Endangered
Mexican Spotted Owl Strix occidentalis lucida
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8196
Threatened
Piping Plover Charadrius melodus
Population: [Atlantic Coast and Northern Great Plains populations] - Wherever found, except
those areas where listed as endangered.
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
This species only needs to be considered under the following conditions:
▪ Water-related activities/use in the N. Platte, S. Platte and Laramie River Basins may affect
listed species in Nebraska.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6039
Threatened
Whooping Crane Grus americana
Population: Wherever found, except where listed as an experimental population
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
This species only needs to be considered under the following conditions:
▪ Water-related activities/use in the N. Platte, S. Platte and Laramie River Basins may affect
listed species in Nebraska.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/758
Endangered
Fishes
NAME STATUS
Greenback Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii stomias
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2775
Threatened
Pallid Sturgeon Scaphirhynchus albus
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
This species only needs to be considered under the following conditions:
▪ Water-related activities/use in the N. Platte, S. Platte and Laramie River Basins may affect
listed species in Nebraska.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/7162
Endangered
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 5
Insects
NAME STATUS
Arapahoe Snowfly Arsapnia arapahoe
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9141
Candidate
Flowering Plants
NAME STATUS
Colorado Butterfly Plant Gaura neomexicana var. coloradensis
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6110
Threatened
North Park Phacelia Phacelia formosula
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/123
Endangered
Ute Ladies'-tresses Spiranthes diluvialis
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2159
Threatened
Western Prairie Fringed Orchid Platanthera praeclara
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
This species only needs to be considered under the following conditions:
▪ Water-related activities/use in the N. Platte, S. Platte and Laramie River Basins may affect
listed species in Nebraska.
Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1669
Threatened
Critical habitats
THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA UNDER THIS OFFICE'S
JURISDICTION.
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 1
USFWS National Wildlife Refuge Lands And Fish
Hatcheries
Any activity proposed on lands managed by the National Wildlife Refuge system must undergo a
'Compatibility Determination' conducted by the Refuge. Please contact the individual Refuges to
discuss any questions or concerns.
THERE ARE NO REFUGE LANDS OR FISH HATCHERIES WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA.
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 1
Migratory Birds
Certain birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle
Protection Act .
Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to
migratory birds, eagles, and their habitats should follow appropriate regulations and consider
implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described below.
1. The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918.
2. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940.
3. 50 C.F.R. Sec. 10.12 and 16 U.S.C. Sec. 668(a)
The birds listed below are birds of particular concern either because they occur on the USFWS
Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) list or warrant special attention in your project location.
To learn more about the levels of concern for birds on your list and how this list is generated, see
the FAQ below. This is not a list of every bird you may find in this location, nor a guarantee that
every bird on this list will be found in your project area. To see exact locations of where birders
and the general public have sighted birds in and around your project area, visit the E-bird data
mapping tool (Tip: enter your location, desired date range and a species on your list). For
projects that occur off the Atlantic Coast, additional maps and models detailing the relative
occurrence and abundance of bird species on your list are available. Links to additional
information about Atlantic Coast birds, and other important information about your migratory
bird list, including how to properly interpret and use your migratory bird report, can be found
below.
For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures
to reduce impacts to migratory birds on your list, click on the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE
SUMMARY at the top of your list to see when these birds are most likely to be present and
breeding in your project area.
NAME
BREEDING
SEASON
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention
because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types
of development or activities.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1626
Breeds Oct 15
to Jul 31
Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions
(BCRs) in the continental USA
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9737
Breeds Mar 15
to Aug 31
1
2
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 2
NAME
BREEDING
SEASON
Cassin's Sparrow Aimophila cassinii
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions
(BCRs) in the continental USA
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9512
Breeds Aug 1 to
Oct 10
Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions
(BCRs) in the continental USA
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1680
Breeds Jan 1 to
Aug 31
Lark Bunting Calamospiza melanocorys
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions
(BCRs) in the continental USA
Breeds May 10
to Aug 15
Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9679
Breeds
elsewhere
Long-billed Curlew Numenius americanus
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5511
Breeds Apr 1 to
Jul 31
Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
Breeds
elsewhere
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9483
Breeds
elsewhere
Willet Tringa semipalmata
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA
and Alaska.
Breeds Apr 20
to Aug 5
Willow Flycatcher Empidonax traillii
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions
(BCRs) in the continental USA
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3482
Breeds May 20
to Aug 31
Probability Of Presence Summary
The graphs below provide our best understanding of when birds of concern are most likely to be
present in your project area. This information can be used to tailor and schedule your project
activities to avoid or minimize impacts to birds. Please make sure you read and understand the
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 3
FAQ “Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report” before using or attempting
to interpret this report.
Probability of Presence ( )
Each green bar represents the bird's relative probability of presence in the 10km grid cell(s) your
project overlaps during a particular week of the year. (A year is represented as 12 4-week
months.) A taller bar indicates a higher probability of species presence. The survey effort (see
below) can be used to establish a level of confidence in the presence score. One can have higher
confidence in the presence score if the corresponding survey effort is also high.
How is the probability of presence score calculated? The calculation is done in three steps:
1. The probability of presence for each week is calculated as the number of survey events in
the week where the species was detected divided by the total number of survey events for
that week. For example, if in week 12 there were 20 survey events and the Spotted Towhee
was found in 5 of them, the probability of presence of the Spotted Towhee in week 12 is
0.25.
2. To properly present the pattern of presence across the year, the relative probability of
presence is calculated. This is the probability of presence divided by the maximum
probability of presence across all weeks. For example, imagine the probability of presence
in week 20 for the Spotted Towhee is 0.05, and that the probability of presence at week 12
(0.25) is the maximum of any week of the year. The relative probability of presence on
week 12 is 0.25/0.25 = 1; at week 20 it is 0.05/0.25 = 0.2.
3. The relative probability of presence calculated in the previous step undergoes a statistical
conversion so that all possible values fall between 0 and 10, inclusive. This is the
probability of presence score.
Breeding Season ( )
Yellow bars denote a very liberal estimate of the time-frame inside which the bird breeds across
its entire range. If there are no yellow bars shown for a bird, it does not breed in your project
area.
Survey Effort ( )
Vertical black lines superimposed on probability of presence bars indicate the number of surveys
performed for that species in the 10km grid cell(s) your project area overlaps. The number of
surveys is expressed as a range, for example, 33 to 64 surveys.
No Data ( )
A week is marked as having no data if there were no survey events for that week.
Survey Timeframe
Surveys from only the last 10 years are used in order to ensure delivery of currently relevant
information. The exception to this is areas off the Atlantic coast, where bird returns are based on
all years of available data, since data in these areas is currently much more sparse.
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 4
SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Bald Eagle
Non-BCC Vulnerable
Burrowing Owl
BCC - BCR
Cassin's Sparrow
BCC - BCR
Golden Eagle
BCC - BCR
Lark Bunting
BCC - BCR
Lesser Yellowlegs
BCC Rangewide (CON)
Long-billed Curlew
BCC Rangewide (CON)
Semipalmated
Sandpiper
BCC Rangewide (CON)
Whimbrel
BCC Rangewide (CON)
Willet
BCC Rangewide (CON)
Willow Flycatcher
BCC - BCR
Additional information can be found using the following links:
▪ Birds of Conservation Concern http://www.fws.gov/birds/management/managed-species/
birds-of-conservation-concern.php
▪ Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds http://www.fws.gov/birds/
management/project-assessment-tools-and-guidance/
conservation-measures.php
▪ Nationwide conservation measures for birds http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/
management/nationwidestandardconservationmeasures.pdf
Migratory Birds FAQ
Tell me more about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts
to migratory birds.
Nationwide Conservation Measures describes measures that can help avoid and minimize
impacts to all birds at any location year round. Implementation of these measures is particularly
important when birds are most likely to occur in the project area. When birds may be breeding in
the area, identifying the locations of any active nests and avoiding their destruction is a very
helpful impact minimization measure. To see when birds are most likely to occur and be breeding
probability of presence breeding season survey effort no data
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 5
in your project area, view the Probability of Presence Summary. Additional measures and/or
permits may be advisable depending on the type of activity you are conducting and the type of
infrastructure or bird species present on your project site.
What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified
location?
The Migratory Bird Resource List is comprised of USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern
(BCC) and other species that may warrant special attention in your project location.
The migratory bird list generated for your project is derived from data provided by the Avian
Knowledge Network (AKN). The AKN data is based on a growing collection of survey, banding,
and citizen science datasets and is queried and filtered to return a list of those birds reported as
occurring in the 10km grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identified as
warranting special attention because they are a BCC species in that area, an eagle (Eagle Act
requirements may apply), or a species that has a particular vulnerability to offshore activities or
development.
Again, the Migratory Bird Resource list includes only a subset of birds that may occur in your
project area. It is not representative of all birds that may occur in your project area. To get a list
of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the AKN Phenology Tool.
What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs for the migratory birds
potentially occurring in my specified location?
The probability of presence graphs associated with your migratory bird list are based on data
provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). This data is derived from a growing
collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets .
Probability of presence data is continuously being updated as new and better information
becomes available. To learn more about how the probability of presence graphs are produced and
how to interpret them, go the Probability of Presence Summary and then click on the "Tell me
about these graphs" link.
How do I know if a bird is breeding, wintering, migrating or present year-round in my
project area?
To see what part of a particular bird's range your project area falls within (i.e. breeding,
wintering, migrating or year-round), you may refer to the following resources: The Cornell Lab
of Ornithology All About Birds Bird Guide, or (if you are unsuccessful in locating the bird of
interest there), the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Neotropical Birds guide. If a bird on your
migratory bird species list has a breeding season associated with it, if that bird does occur in your
project area, there may be nests present at some point within the timeframe specified. If "Breeds
elsewhere" is indicated, then the bird likely does not breed in your project area.
What are the levels of concern for migratory birds?
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 6
Migratory birds delivered through IPaC fall into the following distinct categories of concern:
1. "BCC Rangewide" birds are Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) that are of concern
throughout their range anywhere within the USA (including Hawaii, the Pacific Islands,
Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands);
2. "BCC - BCR" birds are BCCs that are of concern only in particular Bird Conservation
Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA; and
3. "Non-BCC - Vulnerable" birds are not BCC species in your project area, but appear on
your list either because of the Eagle Act requirements (for eagles) or (for non-eagles)
potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities
(e.g. offshore energy development or longline fishing).
Although it is important to try to avoid and minimize impacts to all birds, efforts should be made,
in particular, to avoid and minimize impacts to the birds on this list, especially eagles and BCC
species of rangewide concern. For more information on conservation measures you can
implement to help avoid and minimize migratory bird impacts and requirements for eagles,
please see the FAQs for these topics.
Details about birds that are potentially affected by offshore projects
For additional details about the relative occurrence and abundance of both individual bird species
and groups of bird species within your project area off the Atlantic Coast, please visit the
Northeast Ocean Data Portal. The Portal also offers data and information about other taxa besides
birds that may be helpful to you in your project review. Alternately, you may download the bird
model results files underlying the portal maps through the NOAA NCCOS Integrative Statistical
Modeling and Predictive Mapping of Marine Bird Distributions and Abundance on the Atlantic
Outer Continental Shelf project webpage.
Bird tracking data can also provide additional details about occurrence and habitat use
throughout the year, including migration. Models relying on survey data may not include this
information. For additional information on marine bird tracking data, see the Diving Bird Study
and the nanotag studies or contact Caleb Spiegel or Pam Loring.
What if I have eagles on my list?
If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need to obtain a permit to avoid
violating the Eagle Act should such impacts occur.
Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report
The migratory bird list generated is not a list of all birds in your project area, only a subset of
birds of priority concern. To learn more about how your list is generated, and see options for
identifying what other birds may be in your project area, please see the FAQ “What does IPaC
use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location”. Please be
aware this report provides the “probability of presence” of birds within the 10 km grid cell(s) that
overlap your project; not your exact project footprint. On the graphs provided, please also look
carefully at the survey effort (indicated by the black vertical bar) and for the existence of the “no
data” indicator (a red horizontal bar). A high survey effort is the key component. If the survey
effort is high, then the probability of presence score can be viewed as more dependable. In
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 7
contrast, a low survey effort bar or no data bar means a lack of data and, therefore, a lack of
certainty about presence of the species. This list is not perfect; it is simply a starting point for
identifying what birds of concern have the potential to be in your project area, when they might
be there, and if they might be breeding (which means nests might be present). The list helps you
know what to look for to confirm presence, and helps guide you in knowing when to implement
conservation measures to avoid or minimize potential impacts from your project activities,
should presence be confirmed. To learn more about conservation measures, visit the FAQ “Tell
me about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory
birds” at the bottom of your migratory bird trust resources page.
07/02/2019 Event Code: 06E24000-2019-E-03306 1
Wetlands
Impacts to NWI wetlands and other aquatic habitats may be subject to regulation under Section
404 of the Clean Water Act, or other State/Federal statutes.
For more information please contact the Regulatory Program of the local U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers District.
Please note that the NWI data being shown may be out of date. We are currently working to
update our NWI data set. We recommend you verify these results with a site visit to determine
the actual extent of wetlands on site.
RIVERINE
▪ R5UBFx
Lined Snake
Tropicdoclonion lineatum
Most abundant in
southeastern Colorado in
damp sites in flat plains
grasslands, canyon bottom
grasslands, riparian areas,
and grassy vacant lots and
gullies in cities.
None
Milksnake
Lampropeltis triangulum
Found in a wide variety of
habitats including shortgrass
prairie, sandhills, shrubby
hillsides, canyons and arid
river valleys.
None
Ornate box turtle Sandhills and shortgrass None
Lasiurus cinereus
Generally a solitary species.
In Colorado, the species is
frequently detected in
ponderosa pine forests where
large deciduous trees are
lacking. Can occur in any
appropriate treed habitat.
None
Northern Pocket Gopher
Thomomys talpoides macrotis
Many habitat types including
agricultural lands, pasture
lands, semidesert
shrublands, and grasslands.
None. No mounds seen within
project area.
Catharus fuscescens
Moist deciduous forests with
dense shrubby vegetation. None
Virginia’s Warbler
Vermivora virginiae
Oak forests, pinyon juniper
woodlands, and the brushy
cover of foothills and
montane streamsides.
None
Western Snowy Plover
Charadrius alexandrinus
Sandy open beaches, dry salt
flats, dredge spoils, and river
bars.
None
White-faced Ibis
Plegadis chihi
Wetlands.
None
Willet In Colorado breeding is None
13,000 ft.
None
Northern Pygmy Owl
Glaucidium gnoma
Inhabit conifer forests and
deciduous woodlands in
mountain regions.
None
Olive-sided Flycatcher
Contopus cooperi
Boreal forests between 7,000
– 11,000 ft.
None
Ovenbird
Seiurus aurocapilla
In Colorado are found in
foothills ponderosa pine
None
Grasslands and agricultural
areas, mostly associated with
the eastern plains.
None
Lazuli Bunting
Passerina amoena
Nest in shrubby habitats
including hillsides, riparian
areas, woodlands and
forests.
None
deserts, and grassy urban
areas (golf courses).
None
Cassin’s Finch
Carpodacus cassinii
Breeds in Colorado in high
country areas but also in
Pinyon Juniper woodlands.
None
Cassin’s Sparrow
Aimophila cassinii
Heavily grazed grasslands of
eastern Colorado where
cholla cactus, yucca,
rabbitbrush, or sand sage
provides shrubby overstory
(Wickersham 2016).
None
Chestnut-collared Longspur Tallgrass prairies of the None
Midget Faded Rattlesnake
Crotalus viridis concolor
SC Desert lands in northwestern
Colorado.
None
Longnose Leopard Lizard
Gambelia wislizenii
SC Occurs in west-central Colorado
and extreme southwestern
Colorado.
None
Yellow Mud Turtle
Kinosternon flavescens
SC Occurs in eastern Colorado. None
Common King Snake
Lampropeltis getula
SC Occurs in southwestern and
southeastern Colorado.
None
Texas Blind Snake
Leptotyphlops dulcis
SC Occurs in extreme southeastern
Colorado.
None
Texas Horned Lizard
Phrynosoma cornutum
SC Occurs in southeastern Colorado. None
Roundtail Horned Lizard SC Occurs in extreme northwestern None
Tympanuchus phasianellus
jamesii
SE Rolling hills with scrub oak
thickets and grassy glades.
None
Western Snowy Plover
Charadrius alexandrinus
SC Sandy open beaches, dry salt
flats, dredge spoils, and river
bars.
None
Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Coccyzus americanus
SC Found along major river
drainages.
None
Mammals
Black-tailed Prairie Dog
Cynomys ludovicianus
SC Open prairie grasslands,
disturbed areas, fallow and
mowed agriculture fields.
Present
Botta’s Pocket Gopher
Thomomy bottae rubidus
SC Occur in southern Colorado. None
Kit Fox
Vulpes macrotis
SE Deserts of the Southwest. None
Northern Pocket Gopher
Thomomys talpoides macrotis
SC Many habitat types including
agricultural lands, pasture lands,
None
Colorado.
None
Northern Redbelly Dace
Phoxinus eos
SE
Upper reach tributaries of the S.
Platte and Platte River.
None
Plains Minnow
Hybognathus placitus
SE
Prefer main channel areas with
some current and sandy bottoms.
Found in eastern Colorado.
None
Plains Orangethroat Darter
Etheostoma spectabile
SC
Found in small streams of the
Republican Basin.
None
Rio Grande Chub
Gila pandora
SC
Restricted to the Rio Grande
Basin in Colorado.
None
Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout
Oncorhynchus clarki virginalis
SC
Restricted to the Rio Grande
Basin in Colorado.
None
Rio Grande Sucker
Catostomus plebeius
SE
Restricted to the Rio Grande
Basin in southern Colorado.
None
Southern Redbelly Dace
Phoxinus erythrogaster
SE
One population known in
Arkansas River tributary.
None
Stonecat
Noturus flavus
SC
Found in fast water riffles and
runs of streams.
None
Suckermouth Minnow
Phenacobius mirabilis
SE
Found in riffle areas of warm
prairie streams of all sizes.
None
Birds
American Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus anatum
SC Nests on ledges of high cliffs. None
South America. Migrates east of
project area.
None
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopus
Holarctic breeding distribution;
winters along Pacific Ocean into
South America
None
Willet
Tringa semipalmata
In Colorado breeding is restricted
to Jackson County and the San
Luis Valley.
None
Willow Flycatcher
Empidonax trailii
Riparian thickets in the foothills
and montane zones and willow-
dominated open valleys and
None
occurrence.
Scaphirhynchus albus Pallid Sturgeon E Affected by water
depletions in N. &
S. Platte and
Laramie River
Basins.
No potential for
occurrence.
Birds
Sternula antillarum Least Tern E In Colorado, breeds
along sandy
reservoir shores only
along the Arkansas
River valley.
No potential for
occurrence.
Strix occidentalis lucida Mexican Spotted
Owl
T Rocky canyons with
deciduous trees.
No potential for
occurrence.
Charadrius melodus Piping Plover E In Colorado, breeds
along sandy
reservoir shores only
No potential for
occurrence.