Dames & Moore, 1999 - USDA Forest Service

sharptail snake, gopher snake, and western rattlesnake. The known ranges of these species do not currently
extend to the Site area, but habitat for these species is available in the Railroad Creek drainage. For
example, western rattlesnakes could potentially be found in rocky outcrops on the south-facing slopes, and
isolated populations of Larch Mountain salamanders could be found in moist talus on north-facing slopes.
4.6.2.4 Avifauna
Because the terrestrial biota surveys were conducted in early September, most species observed were either
year-round residents of the area, or migrants passing through. Most summer residents (breeders) had already
departed for southern latitudes. Species which would be expected to use the area for breeding in summer, as
well as probable residents which were not observed, are listed in Table 4.6-7.
Mixed feeding flocks of both resident and migrating bird species were common in all cover types surveyed.
Red-breasted nuthatches, mountain chickadees, dark-eyed juncos, American robins, and golden-crowned
kinglets were the most abundant bird species observed. Other commonly observed species included
chestnut-backed chickadees, Townsend's warbler, white-crowned sparrows, hermit thrushes, cedar
waxwings, finch species (Cassin's and/or purple) and crossbills. A complete list of species observed, by
cover type, is given in Table 4.6-8. A short description of the avifauna found in each survey area is given
I
below.
North-Aspect Coniferous Forest and Mine Workings
Bird density was generally high, with many mixed feeding flocks present. Bird species of interest observed
around the mine workings include a Pileated woodpecker, sharp-shinned hawk, varied thrush, and Clark's
nutcracker. Finch species were also common.
South-Aspect Conifer Stands and Open Areas
Birds were abundant on this slope, although not as abundant as on the north facing slope. Townsend's
solitaire, finches and crossbills were common in this habitat, as were robins. A golden eagle, a rough-
legged hawk and a pair of sharp-shinned hawks were also observed on Martin's Ridge.
Upstream Riparian
A red-tailed hawk was observed perched along the edge of Railroad Creek, and blue grouse were also
observed in the shrubby cover along the Holden Lake trail. Large feeding flocks composed primarily of
robins, cedar waxwings, and sphrmws were also present. No wading birds or water fowl were observed in
riparian areas during the survey. However, dabbling ducks may breed near pools adjacent to Railroad
Creek.
Downstream Riparian
Bird density appeared relatively low in this area. However, the number of birds observed may have been
influenced by rainy weather during the surveys of this area. Two juvenile American dippers were observed
feeding on invertebrates in Railroad Creek, just below the foot of the tailings piles. No other dippers were
observed in the study area.
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17693-005-019Uuly 19. 1999:4:Jl PM;DRAFT FINAL RI REPORT