EVEREST June, 2013 - California Department of Boating and ...

Orange County Coastal Regional Sediment Management Plan
California Grunion
Grunion is a pelagic, schooling fish that generally occurs from
just beyond the surf line to a depth of approximately 60 feet off
sandy beaches. The grunion spawns on beaches primarily
between March and August, although timing may be earlier or
later depending on environmental conditions and location
(Martin 2006). Grunion may spawn on any or all of the 4 to 5
nights following full and new moons (e.g., spring tides),
beginning a little after high tide (Gregory 2001, Martin 2006). Photo credit: Doug Martin
The CDFG makes available each year the predicted grunion
runs from March through August. Habitat suitability for spawning may vary seasonally
associated with natural sand erosion and accretion cycles.
California Least Tern
California least tern is a state and federal listed endangered
species. Least terns are migratory and are only present in
California during the breeding season of April through
September (Atwood, et al. 1994). Least terns feed on small
surface schooling fishes such as topsmelt, northern anchovy,
jacksmelt and mosquitofish. They forage within one to two
miles of breeding colonies (Collins et. al., 1979), although Photo credit: Kathy Keane
non-breeders may forage at greater distances (Massey and Atwood, 1980).
Western Snowy Plover
Snowy plover is a federal threatened species and California
Species of Special Concern. Critical Habitat has been
designated at several beaches in Orange County. The
USFWS also has identified locations where habitat may be
suitable to support wintering concentrations (wintering areas),
although information on actual use is limited. The breeding Photo credit: Callie Bowdish
season for western snowy plovers extends from early March
to late September. Snowy plovers feed on sand crabs, sand hoppers, and a variety of insects
associated with washed-ashore kelp (wrack). Snowy plovers have cryptic coloration and shelter
in depressions, which increases their vulnerability to impacts by vehicles and human
disturbance (Lafferty, 2000).
Other Species
Other sensitive or high interest biological resources occur or have the potential to occur within
the study area, but are not shown on the figures. These are briefly described below.
Everest International Consultants, Inc. 3.34