SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER PROJECT
Riparian/Riverine Areas
5/12/2020 JN T:\Mdata\RVA\Sycamore Hills\MXD\08 Riparian_Riverine Areas.mxd Source: Esri World Imagery, Wood PLC
°
0 250 500
Feet
Legend
Project Site
CDFW/Riparian Areas
Waters of the US/Riverine
Exhibit 8
5/12/2020 JN T:\Mdata\RVA\Sycamore Hills\MXD\08 Riparian_Riverine Areas.mxd E Allessandro Blvd
Barton St
Vista Grande Dr
Drainage A
Drainage B
Area C
0 225 450112.5
Feet
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
LBV & Flycatcher Location Map
Figure 9
Source: Bing Aerial Microsoft Corporation 2020, Datum: NAD 83, Coordinate Sytem: State Plane 6 Date: 08/21/2020 G:\Projects\2020-0007SycamoreDist\DBESP\2020-0007LBVDBESP.mxd ¯
Legend
Property Boundary
!( Least Bell's Vireo
#* Willow Flycatcher
East Allesandro Boulevard
Barton Street
Avendida Hacienda
Vista Grande Drive
Sycamore Canyon Wildernes Park
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
Mitigation Plan
Figure 10
Source: Bing Aerial Microsoft Corporation 2020, Datum: NAD 83, Coordinate Sytem: State Plane 6 Date: G:\Projects\2020-0007SycamoreDist\GIS\Mitigation\2020-0007Mitigation.mxd 0 225 450112.5
Feet
¯
Legend
Property Boundary
Restricted Property
Additional Restricted Property
Creation
Enhancement
Restoration
CDFW/Riparian Areas
Waters of the US/Riverine
East Allesandro Boulevard
Barton Street
Avendida Hacienda
Vista Grande Drive
Sycamore Canyon Wildernes Park
DBESP Report
C
33 APPENDICES
DBESP Report
C
APPEN
DIX 1
Biological Resources and Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Consistency Report, Sycamore Hills Distribution Center Project, Riverside County, California DBESP Report
C
APPEN
DIX 2
2020 Least Bell’s Vireo, Southwestern Willow Flycatcher & Yellow-billed Cuckoo Survey Results for the Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside, California
2020 LEAST BELL’S VIREO,
SOUTHWESTERN WILLOW FLYCATCHER
& YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO
SURVEY RESULTS
FOR THE
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA
PREPARED FOR :
RUTH VILLALOBOS AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
3602 Inland Empire Blvd., Suite C310
Ontario, California 91764
Contact: Ruth Villalobos
(909) 245-1127
PREPARED BY :
KIDD BIOLOGICAL, INC.
23046 Ave de la Carlota, Suite 600
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Contact: Angela Johnson (TE # 59592B-2)
(970)412-4777
August 2020
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020 Kidd Biological, Inc. 2 August 2020
CONTENTS
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 3 Project Description .......................................................................................................................... 3 Survey Location ............................................................................................................................ 4 Habitat Description ......................................................................................................................... 4 Species Description, Distribution, and Status ................................................................................. 5 Least Bell’s Vireo .......................................................................................................................... 5 Southwestern Willow Flycatcher ................................................................................................. 7 Western Yellow-Billed Cuckoo ..................................................................................................... 8 Results ........................................................................................................................................... 10 Other Sensitive Species Observed ............................................................................................. 11 Brown-Headed Cowbirds and Invasive Species ......................................................................... 12 Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................... 13 References ..................................................................................................................................... 15 List of Tables
Table 1. Survey Conditions ............................................................................................................ 10 Table 2. LBVI Locations (UTM- Zone 11S) ...................................................................................... 11 Table 3. Other Listed and Sensitive Species Observed .................................................................. 12 List of Appendices
APPENDIX A- FIGURES
APPENDIX B- SPECIES COMPENDIUM
APPENDIX C- SWFL SURVEY DATA FORMS
APPENDIX D- YBCU SURVEY DATA FORMS
APPENDIX E- SITE PHOTS
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 3 August 2020
INTRODUCTION
Kidd Biological, Inc . (KBI) was contracted by Ruth Villalobos and Associates, Inc. to conduct protocol breeding season surveys for the least Bell’s vireo ( Vireo b ellii pusillus ), (LBVI), southwestern willow flycatcher ( Empidonax traillii extimus ), ( SWFL) and western yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzx americana occidentalis) (YBCU) on approximately 23 acres of potentially suitable riparian habitat within the Sycamore Hills Distribution Center Project site in Riverside, California.
The surveys were performed to satisfy requirements of the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), under which LBVI, SWFL, and YBCU are considered covered species. In addition , under 6.1.2 of the MSHCP, surveys for these species must be conducted when there is potential for impacts to riparian habitats. The surveys followed protocol established for these species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Biologist Angela Johnson (TE 59592B-2) conducted all surveys for the three species.
BACKGROUND
The proposed project is to construct an industrial warehouse development on three parcels [Assessor Parcel Numbers (APNs) 263-060-022, 263-060-024, 263-060-026], totaling 48.64 gross acres (project site), of which, 23 acres contain willow riparian scrub habitat (survey area). The property is located at the northeast corner of Barton Street and Alessandro Boulevard in the City of Riverside (City), immediately south of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. The property is spread in an east to west direction with natural rolling land descending gradually from a west to east direction. There are two jurisdictional drainages on the site. The undeveloped parcels are covered with a low to moderate growth of vegetation cover consisting of natural grasses and weeds with some granitic rock outcrops.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The project proposes subdividing the site into two parcels (Parcels 1 and 2), and three lettered parcels (Parcels A, B, and C). Each parcel is proposed to be developed with a high cube transload short-term warehouse building (Buildings A and B). Building A, a 400,000 square foot warehouse, will be constructed on Parcel 1. Building B, a 203,100 square foot warehouse, will be constructed on Parcel 2. Associated improvements include parking, fire lanes, fencing and walls (including retaining walls), landscaping, and water quality treatment areas.
Parcels A and Parcel B consist of existing Restricted Property of natural land, with a supporting jurisdictional feature, totaling approximately 11.6 acres. A 0.67-acre driveway will be constructed Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 4 August 2020
through the Restricted Property to provide street access from Alessandro Boulevard to Parcel 1, which would reduce the Restricted Property to 10.93 acres. However, 1.44 acres will be added to Parcel A to mitigate this loss, resulting in a total of 12.37 acres of Restricted Property (net gain of
0.77 acres). A Conservation Easement is proposed to be placed over the amended 12.37 acres of Restricted Property.
A trailhead parking lot is proposed on Parcel C, totaling 1.18 acres, for access to the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. Improvements include a parking lot, sidewalk, shade structure, bike rack, drinking fountain, fencing, and a Fire Department access gate. Parcel C will be dedicated to the City.
SURVEY LOCATION
The site is located in western Riverside County within Sycam ore Hills, southeast of the Interstate 215 and State Route 60 (Moreno Valley Freeway) interchange. The site is west of the City of Moreno Valley, north of the City of Perris, east of the City of Corona and south of Sycamore Canyon Park. It can further be described as being located within the Section 9 of Township 3 South, Range 4 West of the Riverside East, California U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 -minute quadrangle map (See Figures 1 and 2).
HABITA T DESCRIPTION
The approximately 48.6-acre project site is located in a mix of urban, residential, and open space habitat. The project site, including the 23-acre survey area is undeveloped, but surrounding land uses include open space to the north that is part of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, a water treatment plant to the west across Barton Street, single-family residential homes and commercial development to the south across Alessandro Boulevard, a storage facility to the southwest, and vacant land to the east.
The project site has two small, linear drainages that contain riparian woodland habitat and are moderately suitable for sensitive riparian bird species : the canopy throughout consists largely of red/arroyo willow (Salix, spp.), Fremont cottonwood ( Populus fremontii), and black willow ( Salix gooddingii), with a n understory of mulefat ( Baccharis salicifolia ), coyote brush ( Baccharis pilularis), red/arroyo willow, black willow, and desert broom ( Baccharis sarothroides ) in the eastern survey area . Although riparian woodland habitat is present, the small habitat size may only support LBVI as they have been observed here in previous surveys. The lack of a permanent water supply, the noise from Barton Street, and high-density urbanization of the area likely limits Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 5 August 2020
the use of this area for nesting by the SWFL and YBCU which are less tolerant of human disturbance, however they may use this habitat as a migratory stop-over.
The remaining habitat in the project site is comprised of annual grasslands that are not suitable for sensitive riparian bird species.
SPECIES DESCRIPTION , DISTRIBUTION , AND STATUS
LEAST BELL ’S VIREO
The LBVI is a small greenish -gray songbird with a white underbelly, two white wing -bars, and white spectacles across the lores. The LBVI was once widespread throughout the Central Valley and other low elevation river valleys of California. Historically, the LBVI’s breeding range extended from the interior of northern California to northwestern Baja California (Grinnell and Miller 1944).
The LBVI typically prefers riparian areas dominated by willows of mixed age composition. These areas frequently include other trees such as western cottonwood and California sycamore. It has been noted that the m ost critical structural component of LBVI’s habitat in California was the presence of a dense understory of young willows, mulefat, California wild rose (Rosa californica), and a variety of other shrubby species (Goldwasser 1981, Franzreb 1989). Territory sizes of LBVI in California have been reported to range from 0.3-1.3 hectares (0.75-3.2 acres) (Kus, et al. 2020).
It was noted by Newman (1992) that “variability in territory size was unrelated to vegetation structure, and did not influence reproductive success of pairs in Southern California.” Within western Riverside County the core populations are primarily Prado Basin and the Santa Ana River, with other smalle r populations in Temescal Wash, Mockingbird Canyo n, Murrieta Creek, Temecula Creek, Lake Skinner (including Rawson Canyon), Vail Lake, Wilson Creek, and San Timoteo Canyon. According to the MSHCP “other geographic locations that are recorded within the University of California, Riverside database and by the USFWS include: Lake Elsinore, March Air Reserve Base, Meadowbrook, Canyon Lake, De Luz Creek, Potrero Creek, Bautista Creek , and Reche Canyon (USFWS 1998, CNDDB 2020).” The LBVI breeding season in California starting with first egg laid to date of last fledge is from March 28 to August 10 (Kus et al. 2020).
Loss and degradation of breeding habitat has been the greatest contributor to the decline of the LBVI and SWFL. Habitat conversion for agricultural purposes has removed much of the original riparian woodland, and flood control measures and channelization have further depleted the riparian habitats used by the LBVI and SWFL as well as other riparian birds. Another major contributing factor to the decline of the LBVI and SWFL was the introduction of the brown-headed cowbird (Malothrus ater) to California around 1890. Estimates from a 1989 study concluded that Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 6 August 2020
anywhere from 47% to 100% of all LBVI nests contained cowbird eggs (Franzreb 1989). The significant reduction in the population size and ra nge of the vireo resulted in it being listed as a state endangered species in June 1980, and federally listed as endangered in May 1986.
LBVI SUR VE Y MET H OD S
Presence/absence surveys were conducted according to the USFWS Least Bell’s Vireo Survey Guidelines (2001). All potentially suitable LBVI habitat within the survey areas were surveyed eight (8) times between April 10 and July 3 1, 2020 with at least 10 days between survey visits.
The surveys were conducted during the morning hours during appropriate weather conditions.
Some survey days continued into the early afternoon if weather conditions and bird activity remained conducive for bi rd detection . Less than three linear kilometers (km) (1.9 miles) of habitat were surveyed per day. LBVI surveys were conducted passively, listening for vireo songs, calls, whisper songs, scolds and visually looking for adults and juveniles. Any nesting behavior was also noted.
LBVI observations were recorded in a field notebook, and GPS readings of the locations were taken during the surveys. If an exact point could not be taken, estimated points were determined post-survey. Numbers and locations of paired or unpaired territorial males, and the ages and sexes of encountered vireos (when discernible) were noted. Individual LBVI were also checked for colored leg bands.
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 7 August 2020
SOUTHWESTERN WILLOW FLYCATCHER
SP E C I E S DESC R I P T I O N, DI ST R I B UT IO N, AN D STAT US The SWFL is a small, insectivorous passerine that migrates north in the spring from South America, Mexico, and Central America, to breed in the southwestern desert riparian habitats of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Within western Riverside Co unty there are very few reported occurrences with the majority occurring within the Prado Basin . The most current estimated number of range-wide flycatcher territories is 1,299 (288 breeding pairs) (USFWS 2014, Durst et al. 2008). Based on the USFWS’ 5-year review of this species, it is reported that there are several factors that may contribute to the species decline within its range. The most concerning is the spread of the tamarisk leaf beetle. Although tamarisk is a non -native species, it provides habitat for the SWFL and seems to be more tolerant of human disturbances than native riparian species such as willows and cottonwoods (USGS 2014). The loss of tamarisk without conserving and/or restoring native riparian habitats could cause large areas of currently suitable habitat to be lost.
Like the LBVI, the SWFL occurs in riparian woodland habitat that is characterized by a dense growth of willows, mulefat, arrowweed (Pluchea sp.), cottonwood, sycamore (Platanus sp.), and tamarisk. In addition to willow riparian woodland, the SWFL also nests in coast live oak woodland on the upper San Luis Rey River, San Diego County, California; in dense stands of tamarisk on the lower Colorado River, Imperial and Riverside Counties, California. Surface water or saturated soils are usually present in or adjacent to nesting thickets. Like the LBVI, the loss of habitat and parasitism by cowbirds are thought to be the major reasons for the declining numbers of SWFL (Pike et al, 2004, Kus 2002). The southwestern subspecies of willow flycatcher was federally listed as endangered in February 1995 (USFWS 1995). Critical habitat was established in 2005, and then revised in 2013. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) determined that all subspecies in California are endangered under the California Endangered Species Act. Determining subspecies is based on the region the flycatcher is found breeding as they are nearly indistinguishable by site or call. In Riverside County, breeding willow flycatchers are considered the federally-listed SWFL (Unitt 1987, Browning 1993, Paxton 2000) . Declines in this species are mostly contributed to a loss of riparian habitat throughout the southwest. It is estimated that as much as 90% of riparian habitat has been lost in this region, and the remaining habitats have been degraded due to flood control and dam construction (Busch and Smith 1995). The SWFL breeding season in California starting with first egg laid to date of last fledge is from May 25 to August 27 (Sedgwick 2020).
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 8 August 2020
SWFL SURVE Y MET H OD S
Presence/absence surveys were conducted according to the July 11, 2000 revised protocol for project-related surveys and the general guidelines described by Sogge et al. (2010). All potential SWFL habitat and riparian areas within the survey area were surveyed five (5) times: one (1) visit during the 1st Survey Period (May 15 to May 31), two (2) visits during the 2 nd Survey Period (June 1 to June 24), and two (2) visits during the 3rd Survey Period (June 25 to July 17). Each visit was at least five (5) days apart. Surveys of the sites were conducted during morning hours and when the temperature exceeded 13°C (55°f). Less than 1.9 miles (3 km) of habitat were surveyed per day.
Surveys for the SWFL, LBVI, and YBCU were conducted concurrently, however they survey for each species was done on separate passes (e.g. LBVI was surveyed from south to north transect, SWFL were surveyed for during the north to south transect , and YBCU from south to north transect).
The habitats size and linear shape made it possible to survey for each species within published protocol time frames using this method. Surveys were conducted within all potential habitat patches. If a singing SWFL was not heard in an area after one to two minutes, a permitted biologist played a taped vocalization for 15 to 30 seconds and observed the area for responding SWFLs.
This was repeated every 20 to 30 meters. If a SWFL was detected, tape playing was discontinued.
Any SWFL observations would be recorded in a field data form (found in Appendix C), and GPS readings of the locations were taken during the surveys. If this species was observed, their behavior, numbers, and locations of paired or unpaired birds; ages; and sexes of encounter ed SWFL would be noted. The biologist also checked for leg bands.
WESTERN YELLOW -BILLED CUCKOO
SP E C I E S DESC R I P T I O N, DI ST R I B UT IO N, AN D STAT US The YBCU is an extremely rare bird in California, with less than 50 pairs found during a statewide survey in 1986-1987, and no indication of more recent population increases. Most of California’s YBCU are found in two areas: along the Sacramento River between Red Bluff and Colusa, and along the South Fork Kern River near Weldon (Laymon et al. 1997). There is only one known breeding YBCU pair in Riverside County reported in 2001 (Riverside County 2003). There are no recent documentations of this species in western Riverside County.
YBCU are long distance migrants and return to California from their South American wintering areas in late May and June. Occupied riparian forests are usually larger than 25 acres. Detection of YBCU is difficult, as they have large ho me ranges in dense willow and cottonwood forests and call infrequently. Recorded playback of the species’ calls is the recommended method for conducting surveys. YBCU was listed as endangered by the State of California in 1988 and Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 9 August 2020
federally listed as thr eatened in 2014. The YBCU breeding season in California starting with first egg laid to date of last fledge is from June 21 to August 1 (Hughes 2020).
YBCU SUR VE Y MET H OD S
Survey methods for YBCU followed the April 2015 A Natural History Summary and Survey Protocol for the Western Distinct Population Segment of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Halterman et. al 2015).
Surveys were conducted in a ll potential YBCU habitat within the survey areas . Each survey area was surveyed a minimum of four (4) times over three (3) survey periods: minimum of one (1) visit during the 1 st Survey Period (June 15 to July 1), minimum of two (2) visits during the 2 nd Survey Period (July 1 to July 31), and a minimum of one (1) visits during the 3 rd Survey Period (July 31 to August 15). Each survey visit was conducted at least 12 days apart, but no more th an 15 days apart. Surveys were conducted in early morning hours beginning just before sunrise and ending no later than 1100, or until temperatures reached 40°C/104°F, whichever came first.
In order to increase the likelihood of detecting YBCU, the surveyor slowly walked appropriately spaced transects, according to size of habitat patch , while stopping every 100 meters and watching and listening for YBCU. If a YBCU was not heard or seen after one minute, the surveyor broadcast a series of five recorded YBCU contact/“kowlp” calls, spaced one minute apart . If a YBCU was heard or observed then the next stopping point was spaced 300 meters from the last in order to avoid duplicate mappings of the same bird. As recommended by the protocol, surveys for YBCU were not conducted simultaneously with LBVI or SWFL surveys.
Any YBCU observations would be recorded and mapped in a field data form (found in Appendix D) and GPS readings of the locations would be taken during the surveys in accordance with the protocol.
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 10 August 2020
RESULTS
Surveys for LBVI, SWFL, and YBCU were conducted where it was determined to support suitabl e habitat by permitted biologist Angela Johnson between April 2 1 and August 9, 2020. Based on the level of effort and environmental conditions all surveys were considered valid as they followed published protocols.
Two (2) territories with counter-singing LBVI males were present on May 5 duri ng the second survey; however, for all subsequent surveys only one male remained throughout the 2020 season.
This individual was observed only at the northernmost part of the survey area and was often seen with a mate. Later in the season (survey 6), the pair was also seen with a fledgling.
Surveys for SWFL and YBCU were conducted in the riparian woodland habitat along the north - south drainage. The habitat in the eastern portion of the survey area was deemed not suitable due to the lack of canopy presen t and small patch size. No SWFL or YBCU were detected within the survey area during the 2020 season. The marginal habitat makes it unlikely that this site will be used in the future by these two species.
A brief description of LBVI, SWFL and YBCU survey results for each of the survey area is provided below. Data sheets for the SWFL and YBCU surveys can be found in Appendix C-D.
TABLE 1. SURVEY CONDITIONS
Survey # Date Surveyor Start
Time
Stop
Time
Weather Temp.
Range
(°f)
# LBVI
Detected
# SWFL
Detected
# YBCU
Detected
1 4/21/20 AJ 0600 0800
50-100% CC,
wind 3-6
mph
52-57 0 N/A N/A
2 5/5/20 AJ 0641 0839
0% CC,
wind
1 mph
60-75 3 N/A N/A
3* 5/19/20 AJ 0557 0800
40-50% CC,
wind 3-5
mph
50-55 0 0 N/A
4* 6/2/20 AJ 0620 0815
50-70% CC,
wind 1-3
mph
67-71 1 0 N/A
5* 6/16/20 AJ 0522 0725
100% CC,
wind 3
mph
56-58 1 0 N/A
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 11 August 2020
(6*) 6/30/20 AJ/ML 0530 0800
100% CC,
wind 2-3
mph
60-63 3 0 0
(7*) 7/14/20 AJ 0551 0755
30-100% CC,
wind 1-2
mph
64-68 2 0 0
(8) 7/28/20 AJ 0552 0718
0% CC,
wind 1
mph
59-64 1 N/A 0
(4) 8/9/20 AJ 0702 0819
0% CC,
wind 0-2
mph.
65-70 N/A N/A 0
* Indicates SWFL and LBVI surveys conducted on the same day. Parentheses (N) Indicates YBCU survey.
TABLE 2. LBVI LOCATIONS (UTM - ZONE 11S)
Survey Area Northing Easting
LBVI Territory 1 448651 m E 3756594 m N
LBVI Territory 2 448868 m E 3756685 m N
When LBVI were detected in numerous locations, only the central point of the polygon is given.
OTHER LISTED AND SENSITIVE SPECIES OBSERVED
This survey focused on three species: the LBVI, SWFL and YBCU ; however, incidental observation(s) of all listed and sensitive species were documented. There are various definitions of “sensitive” in accordance with State and Federal Agencies. The following is a brief summary of the status of the species that were observed on site (all definitions were taken directly from the CDFW Biogeographic Data Branch’s Special Animals list [August 2020] unless otherwise indicated):
CDFW California Species of Special Concern (SSC): The Department has designated certain vertebrate species as “Species of Special Concern” because declining population levels, limited ranges, and/or continuing threats have made them vulnerable to extinction. The goal of designating species as “SSC” is to halt or reverse their decline early enough to secure their long- term viability.
CDFW: Watch List ( WL): The birds on this Watch List ar e 1) not on the current Special Concern list but were on previous lists and they have not been state listed under CESA; 2) were previously Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 12 August 2020
state or federally listed and now are on neither list; or 3) are on the list of “Fully Protected” species.CDFW Califo rnia State Threatened (ST): Species that have been designated at risk of extinction by the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) after a formal listing process.
USFWS Federally Endangered (FE): A species in danger of extinction in a portion or all of its range.
Sensitive species observed included:
TABLE 3. OTHER LISTED AND SENSITIVE SPECIES OBSERVED
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Cooper’s Hawk Accipiter cooperi WL
So.California Rufous-crowned Sparrow Aimophila ruficeps canescens WL Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat Dipodomys stephensi FE, ST
San Diego Black-tailed Jackrabbit Lepus californicus bennettii SSC
BROWN -HEADED COWBIRDS AND INVASIVE SPECIES
Brown-headed cowbirds (BHCO) were not detected (seen or heard) during any of the surveys in 2020. No cowbird traps were noted at any of the survey locations.
The only non-native wildlife species detected within the survey areas were rock pigeons (Columba livia), and house sparrows (Passer domesticus). Neither of thes e birds poses a significant threat to the conservation of the LBVI, SWFL, or YBCU.
There were five invasive plant species within the survey area: Peruvian pepper (Schinus molle), Brazilian pepper (S. terebinthifolia), tree tobacco (Nicotiana glauca), giant reed (Arundo donax), and salt cedar (Tamarisk sp.). N one of these species was found to be heavily abundant in the survey area. Giant reed was not found in great density, though it is present in the northern section of the survey area . The presence of giant reed has a greater effect on ecosystem health as the diversity and abundance of leaf/aerial insects are significantly decreased in areas overrun by giant reed (Dudley and Dudley, 2003). For insect-eating birds such as the SWFL and LBVI, the spread of giant reed could cause a significant decrease in food availability.
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 13 August 2020
In the southern portion of the survey area, a few salt cedars were also present. Although an invasive plant, salt cedar is regularly used by SWFLs and other riparian birds for foraging and nesting. Although this species out -competes native plant species, the small extent of salt cedar in this area does not likely h ave a significant impact on the population of sensitive birds in the area. However, if salt cedar should spread and dominate a substantial portion of the riparian habitat in the surrounding area, the diversity of invertebrates in the willow riparian habit at may decline. The result of decreased abundance and diversity of invertebrates likely affects species at higher trophic levels (Baily et al 2001).
CONCLUSION
A total of two (2) least Bell’s vireo territories were detected during the 20 20 surveys; however, one territory did not remain active for the entire season . The primary territory fledged at least one young. No southwestern willow flycatchers or yellow-billed cuckoo were detected.
Based on the presence of a State and Federally Endangered Species on the site, consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will be required for any impacts to the habitat, including potential indirect impacts which could occur during the construct ion phase. Consultation with the USFWS will be conducted under Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act. During the consultations, avoidances measures and possible mitigation will be required.
Other sensitive species observed included the Cooper’s hawk, southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, Stephen s’ kangaroo rat, and San Diego black -tailed jackrabbit . These species are addressed in the Biological Resources and Western Riverside County MSHC P Consistency Report prepared by Wood Consultants.
CERTIFICATION
I certify that the information in this survey report and attached exhibits, fully and accurately represent my work.
Date: September 10, 2020 Signed:
Angela Johnson TE 59592B-2
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 14 August 2020
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 15 August 2020
REFERENCES
Baily, J.K., J.A. Schweitzer, T.G. Whitman. 2001. Note- Salt Cedar Negatively Affects Biodiversity of Aquatic Macroinvertebrates. Wetlands (Society of Wetland Scientists) Vol. 21, No. 3. Pp 442-447 Browning, M.R. 1993. Comments on the taxonomy of Empidonax traillii (Willow Flycatcher). Western Birds 24: 241- 257
Busch, D.E. and S.D. Smith. 1995. Mechanisms associated with decline of woody species in riparian ecosystems of the southwestern US. Journal of Ecological Monigraphs Vol. 65, No. 3. Pp 347-370 California Department of Fish and Game- Habitat Conservation Branch. Special Animals List July 2020.
Dudley, A.M and T.L. Dudley. 2003. Reduction of riparian arthropod abundance and diversity as a consequence of giant reed (Arundo donax) invasion. Biological Invasions, Ch 5, pp 167-177. Published by Kluwer Academic Publishers, Netherlands.
Durst, S.L., M.K. Sogge, H.C. English, H.A. Walker, B.E. Kus, and S.J. Sferra. 2008. Southwestern willow flycatcher breeding site and territory summary – 2007. U.S. Geological Survey, Colorado Plateau Research Station, Flagstaff, AZ.
Franzreb, K.E. 1989. Ecology and conservation of the endangered least Bell ’s vireo. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Biol. Rep. 89(1). 17 pp.
Goldwasser, S. 1981. Habitat requirements of the Least Bell's Vireo. Final Rep., California Dept. of Fish and Game, Sacramento, CA.
Grinnell, J., and Miller, A. H. 1944. The Distribution of the Birds of California. Pacific Coast Avifauna No. 27. Cooper Ornithological Club. Berkeley, CA
Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. Nongame - Heritage Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California.
Halterman, M.D. 1999. Draf t Western Yellow -billed Cuckoo Natural History Summary and Survey Methodology.
Southern Sierra Research Station, Weldon, CA.
Halterman, M.D., M.J. Johnson, J.A. Holmes and S.A. Laymon. 2015. A Natural History Summary and Survey Protocol for the Western Di stinct Population Segment of the Yellow -billed Cuckoo: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Techniques and Methods, 45 p.
Hughes, J. M. (2020). Yellow -billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus), version 1.0. In Birds of the World (P. G.
Rodewald, Editor). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA. https://doi.org/10.2173/bow.yebcuc.01 Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 16 August 2020
Kus, B. 2002. Least Bell’s Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus). In The Riparian Bird Conservation Plan: a strategy for reversing the decline of riparian-associated birds in California. California Partners in Flight.
Kus, B., S. L. Hopp, R. R. Johnson, and B. T. Brown (2020). Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii), version 1.0. In Birds of the World (A. F. Poole, Editor). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA. https://doi.org/10.2173/bow.belvir.01 Laymon, S.A., P.L Williams, and M.D. Halterman. 1997. Breeding status of the yellow -billed cuckoo in the South Fork Kern River Valley, Kern County, California: Summary Report 1985 -1996. Admin. Report USDA Forest Service, Sequoia National Forest, Cannell Meadow Ranger District, Challenge Cost-share Grant #92-5-13.
Laymon, S.A. 1998. Yellow-billed Cuckoo survey and Monitoring Protocol for California. Unpublished.
Newman, J. 1992. Relationships between territory size, habitat structure and reproductive success in the Least Bell's Vireo, Vireo bellii pusillus. Unpubl. M.S. thesis. San Diego State University, San Diego, CA.
Parris, K. M., and A. Schneider 2008. Impacts of traffic noise and traffic volume on birds of roadside habitats.
Ecology and Society 14(1): 29.
Paxton, E.H. 2000. Molecular Genetic Structuring and Demographic History of the Willow Flycatcher. Masters Thesis, Northern Arizona University.
Pike, J.E., D. Pellegrini, L. Hays and R. Zembal. 2004. Least Bell's Vireos and Southwestern Willow Flycatchers in Prado Basin of the Santa Ana River Watershed, CA. (130 kb). This document was produced by the Orange County Water District and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Riverside County (Calif.). Transportation and Land Management Agency, Dudek & Associates. 2003. Final MSHCP:
Western Riverside County Multi Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP).
Sedgwick, J. A. (2020). Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii), version 1.0. In Birds of the World (A. F. Poole and F.
B. Gill, Editors). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA. https://doi.org/10.2173/bow.wilfly.01 Sogge, M.K., Ahlers, Darrell, and S.J. Sferra. 2010. A natural history summary and survey protocol for the southwestern willow flycatcher. U.S. Geological Survey Techniques and Methods 2A-10.
Sogge, M.K., Tibbitts, T.J., van Riper, C., and May, T., 1995, Status of the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher along the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park —1995, Summary report: National Biological Service Colorado Plateau Research Station/Northern Arizona University, 26 p.
Unitt, P. 1987. Empidonax traillii extimus: an endangered subspecies. Western Birds 18: 137-162 U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). 2001. Least Bell’s Vireo Survey Guidelines. (as amended 19 January 2001).
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1998. Draft Recovery Plan for the least Bell’s vireo. USFWS Portland OR. 139pp Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 17 August 2020
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1995. Final Rule Determining Endangered Status for the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher: Federal Register 60:10694 (February 27, 1995).
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002. Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Recovery Plan, Region 2, Albuquerque, NM.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2014. Endangered Species Glossary Accessed August 25, 2015. http://www.fws.gov/Midwest/Endangered/glossary/index.html U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 2014. Southwestern willow flycatcher web site.
Http://sbsc.wr.usgs/cprs/research/projects/SWFL/cprsmain.asp. U.S. Geological Survey, Colorado Plateau Research Station, Flagstaff, AZ.
Whitfield, M.J., and Enos, K., 1996, A Brown-headed Cowbird control program and monitoring for the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, South Fork Kern River, California, 1996: Report to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento District and the California Department of Fish and Game.
Zembal, R. 2015. Personal communication between R. Zembal, Natural Re sources Director of the Orange County Water District regarding 2014 and 2015 observations of SWFL at Prado Basin. Email dated September 1, 2015
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 18 August 2020
APPENDIX A- FIGURES
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 20 August 2020
APPENDIX B- SPECIES COMPENDIUM
AVES
Anseriformes – Ducks, Geese, and Swans
Anatidae - Ducks, Geese, and Swans
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
Galliformes – Turkey, Grouse, Chicken, and New World Quail Odontophoridae – New World Quail
California Quail (Callipepla californica)
Accipitriformes – Hawks, Kites, Eagles, and Allies
Accipitridae – Hawks, Kites, Eagles, and Allies
§ Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii)
Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus)
Columbiformes - Pigeons, and Doves
Columbidae - Pigeons and Doves
Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura)
* Rock Pigeon (Columba livia)
Cuculiformes – Cuckoos and Allies
Cuculidae – Cuckoos and Allies
Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus)
Strigiformes – Owls
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 22 August 2020
Strigidae – Owls
Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
Apodiformes – Swifts and Hummingbirds
Apodidae – Swifts
White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis)
Trochilidae – Hummingbirds
Anna's Hummingbird (Calypte anna)
Allen’s Hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin)
Piciformes – Woodpeckers and Allies
Picidae – Woodpeckers and Allies
Nuttall's Woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii)
Falconiformes – Falcons and Caracara
Falconidae – Falcons
American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
Passeriformes - Passerine Birds
Tyrannidae - Tyrant Flycatchers
Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans)
Say’s Phoebe (Sayornis saya)
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens)
Vireonidae – Vireos
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 23 August 2020
§ Least Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus)
Corvidae - Crows and Jays
Common Raven (Corvus corax)
American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos)
Hirundinidae – Swallows
Northern rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota)
Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
Aegithalidae - Long-tailed Tits and Bushtits
Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus)
Troglodytidae – Wrens
Rock Wren (Salpinctes obsoletus)
House Wren (Troglodytes aedon)
Bewick's Wren (Thryomanes bewickii)
Polioptilidae – Gnatcatchers
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea)
Mimidae - Mockingbirds and Thrashers
California Thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum)
Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)
Parulidae - Wood-Warblers
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 24 August 2020
Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas)
Wilson’s Warbler (Cardellina pusilla)
Passerellidae – New World Sparrows
White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys)
Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sndwichensis)
Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia)
§ S. California Rufous-crowned Sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) California Towhee (Melozone crissalis)
Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus)
Passeridae – Old World Sparrows
* House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
Cardinalidae – Cardinals, Grosbeaks, and Allies
Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea)
Icteridae – Blackbirds, Orioles, and Allies
Hooded Oriole (Icterus cucullatus)
Fringillidae - Fringilline and Cardueline Finches and Allies House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus)
Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria)
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 25 August 2020
MAMMALIA
Lagomorpha – Hares, Rabbits, and Pika
Leporidae – Hares and Rabbits
Desert Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii)
§ San Diego Black-tailed Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennettii) Rodentia – Rodents
Sciuridae – Squirrels
California Ground Squirrel (Otosperophilus beecheyi)
Heteromyidae – Pocket Mice and Kangaroo Rats
§ Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat (Dipodomys stephensi)
Geomyidae – Gophers
Botta’s Pocket Gopher (Thomomys bottae)
Carnivora – Carnivores
Canidae – Wolves, Dogs, and Coyotes
Coyote (Canis latrans)
REPTILIA
Squamata – Lizards and Snakes
Phrynosomatidae – Lizards
Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis)
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 26 August 2020
Granite Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus orcutti)
Western Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana elegans)
*Indicates non-native species
§ Indicates Sensitive Species
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 27 August 2020
APPENDIX C- SWFL SURVEY DATA FORMS
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 28 August 2020
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 29 August 2020
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 30 August 2020
APPENDIX D- YBCU SURVEY DATA FORM
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 31 August 2020
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 32 August 2020
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 33 August 2020
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 34 August 2020
APPENDIX E- SITE PHOTOS
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 35 August 2020
North Patch Site Photos
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 36 August 2020
South Patch Site Photos
Sensitive Riparian Bird Surveys for Sycamore Hills Distribution Center, Riverside 2020
Kidd Biological, Inc. 37 August 2020
East Patch Site Photos
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report
Prepared For:
Ruth Villalobos & Associates, Inc.
3602 Inland Empire Boulevard, Suite C310
Ontario, California 91764
Contact: Ruth Villalobos
Prepared By:
ELMT Consulting
2201 N. Grand Avenue #10098
Santa Ana, California 2711
Contact: Travis J. McGill
714.716.5050
June 2020
Updated September 2020
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report
The undersigned certify that the statements furnished in this report and exhibits present data and information required for this biological evaluation, and the facts, statements, and information presented is a complete and accurate account of the findings and conclusions to the best of our knowledge and beliefs.
Travis J. McGill
Director
Thomas J. McGill, Ph.D.
Managing Director
June 2020
Updated September 2020
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report iii
Table of Contents
Section 1 Introduction .................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Project Location ............................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Project Description ......................................................................................................... 1 Section 2 Species Background ..................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Species Background ....................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Regulatory Framework .................................................................................................. 5
2.2.1 MSHCP Section 6.3.2 Additional Survey Needs and Procedures – Burrowing Owl .... 6 Section 3 Methodology ................................................................................................................. 8 Section 4 Results ......................................................................................................................... 11
4.1 Existing Conditions ...................................................................................................... 11
4.2 Burrowing Owl Focused Survey .................................................................................. 14 Section 5 Conclusion and Recommendations........................................................................... 15 Section 6 References ................................................................................................................... 16
EXHIBITS
Exhibit 1: Regional Vicinity ......................................................................................................... 2 Exhibit 2: Site Vicinity ................................................................................................................... 3 Exhibit 3: Project Site ..................................................................................................................... 4 Exhibit 4: Survey Area and Suitable Habitat ................................................................................ 10 Exhibit 5: Vegetation .................................................................................................................... 12 Exhibit 6: CNDDB BUOW Observations .................................................................................... 13
APPENDIX
Appendix A Site Photographs
Appendix B Fauna Compendium
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey 1
Section 1 Introduction
ELMT Consulting (ELMT) conducted a focused burrowing owl ( Athene cunicularia) survey for the Sycamore Hills Distribution Center East project (project or project site) located north of East Alessandro Boulevard and east of Barton Street in the City of Riverside, Riverside County, California (project site or site). Biologists Thomas J. McGill, Ph.D., Travis J. McGill, Miranda Losing, and Jacob H. Lloyd Davies surveyed the project site in accordance with the Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Area (Environmental Programs Department, 2006). Four (4) separate focused burrowing owl surveys were conducted on April 24, May 7, May 21, and June 5, 2020. T he surveys were conducted to document the presence/absence of burrowing owl on the project site.
1.1 PROJECT LOCATION
The project site is generally located west of Interstate 215, south of State Route 60, east State Route 91, and north of East Alessandro Boulevard in the City of Riverside, Riverside County, California (Exhibit 1, Regional Vicinity ). The project site is depicted on the Riverside East quadrangle of the United States Geological Survey’s (USGS) 7.5 -minute topographic map series in Section 9 of Township 3 South, Range 4 West (Exhibit 2, Site Vicinity). Specifically, the project site is located immediately north of East Alessandro Boulevard, immediately east of Barton Avenue, and immediately southeast of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park within Assessor Parcel Numbers (APNs) 263-060- 022, -024, and -026 (Exhibit 3, Project Site).
1.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed project consists of the grading for, and construction of, two warehouse buildings and associated office spaces and parking encompassing approximately 48.6 acres. Planned warehouse and office spaces total 603,100 square feet and planned parking includes 623 standard auto parking stalls and 155 tractor-trailer parking stalls.
^_
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BURROWING OWL FOCSUED SURVEY
Regional Vicinity
Exhibit 1
!
0 1.25 2.50.625
Miles
Source: World Transportation, World Shaded Relief, Riverside County ^_
PROJECT
LOCATION
PROJECT
LOCATION
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BURROWING OWL FOCUSED SURVEY
Site Vicinity
Exhibit 2
!
0 1,000 2,000500
Feet
Source: USA Topographic Map, Riverside County
Legend
Project Site
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BURROWING OWL FOCUSED SURVEY
Project Site
Exhibit 3
!
0 250 500125
Feet
Source: ESRI Aerial Imagery, Riverside County
Legend
Project Site
Survey Area (500ft Buffer)
Barton St
Alessandro Blvd
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey 5
Section 2 Species Background
2.1 SPECIES BACKGROUND
The burrowing owl is a grassland specialist distributed throughout western North America where it occupies open areas with short vegetation and bare ground within shrub, desert, and grassland environments. Burrowing owls use a wide variety of arid and semi -arid environments with well - drained, level to gently- sloping areas characterized by sparse vegetation and bare ground (Haug and Didiuk 1993; Dechant et al. 1999). Burrowing owls are dependent upon the presence of fossorial mammals, such as ground squirrels (Otospermophilus beecheyi), whose burrows are used for roosting and nesting (Haug and Didiuk 1993). The presence or absence of colonial mammal burrows is often a major factor that limits the presence or absence of burrowing owls. Where mammal burrows are scarce, burrowing owls have been found occupying man- made cavities, such as buried and non-functioning drain pipes, stand-pipes, and dry culverts. Burrowing mammals may burrow beneath rocks and debris or large, heavy objects such as abandoned cars, concrete blocks, or concrete pads. Large, hard objects at burrow entrances stabilize the entrance from collapse and may inhibit excavation by predators.
Burrowing owls have crepuscular (dawn and dusk) hunting habits but are often observed perched in or near the burrow entrance during the day. They prey upon invertebrates and small vertebrates (Thomsen 1971) through low vegetation which allows for foraging visibility. The nesting season occurs between February 1 and August 31. Burrowing owl in California may migrate southerly, but often remain in the breeding area during the non-breeding period.
The burrowing owl was once abundant and widely distributed within coastal southern California, but it has declined precipitously in counties such as Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino. A petition was filed to list the California population of the western burrowing owl as an Endangered or Threatened species (Center for Biological Diversity 2003); however, the California Department of Fish and Wild life (CDFW) declined to list the burrowing owl as either endangered or threatened. The CDFW currently lists the burrowing owl as a California Species of Special Concern.
2.2 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
The burrowing owl is a resident and migratory bird species protected by international treaty under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918. The MBTA reflects agreements made between the U.S., England, Mexico, the former Soviet Union, and Japan to protect all of North America’s migratory bird populations. The MBTA protects migratory bird nests from possession, sale, purchase, barter, transport, import and export, and collection. The other prohibitions of the MBTA - capture, pursue, hunt, and kill - are inapplicable to nests. The regulatory definit ion of take, as defined in Title 50 C.F.R. part 10.12, means to pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or attempt to hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect. Only the verb “collect” applies to nests. It is illegal to collect, possess, and by any means transfer possession of any migratory bird nest. The MBTA prohibits the destruction of a Species Background
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report 6
nest when it contains birds or eggs, and no possession shall occur during the destruction (United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Migrat ory Bird Permit Memorandum, April 15, 2003). Certain exceptions to this prohibition are included in 50 C.F.R. section 21. Pursuant to CDFW Code section 3513, the Department enforces the MBTA consistent with rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the Migratory Treaty Act.
Additionally, burrowing owl is protected under Sections 3503, 3503.3, 3511, and 3513 of the CDFW Code which prohibit the take, possession, or destruction of birds, their nests or eggs. Implementa tion of the take provisions requires that project -related disturbance at active nesting territories be reduced or eliminated during critical phases of the nesting cycle (March 1 - August 15, annually). CDFW Code Section 3503.5 protects birds in the orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (Birds of Prey, such as hawks and owls, including burrowing owls) which makes it unlawful to take, posses, or destroy their nest or eggs.
CDFW’s 2012 Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation offers long-term assurances for conservation of this species in exchange for biologically appropriate levels of incidental take and/or habitat loss as defined in the approved plan. California’s NCCP Act (FGC §2800 et seq.) governs such plans at the state level, and was designed to conserve species, natural communities, ecosystems, and ecological processes across a jurisdiction or a collection of jurisdictions. Complementary federal HCPs are governed by the Endangered Species Act (7 U.S.C. § 136, 16 U.S.C.§ 1531 et seq.) (ESA). Regional conservation plans (and certain other landscape- level conservation and management plans), may provide conservation for unlisted as well as listed species. Because the geographic scope of NCCPs and HCPs may span many hundreds of thousands of acres, these planning tools have the potential to play a significant role in conservation of burrowing owls, and grasslands and other habitats.
Guidelines for the Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) provide that a species be considered as endangered or “rare” regardless of appearance on a formal list for the purposes of the CEQA (Guidelines, Section 15380, subsections b and d). CEQA requires a mandatory finding of significance if impacts to threatened or endangered species are likely to occur (Sections 21001(c), 21083. Guidelines 15380, 15064, 15065). Avoidance or mitigation must be presented to reduce impacts to less than significant levels.
2.2.1 MSHCP Section 6.3.2 Additional Survey Needs and Procedures – Burrowing Owl
Under Section 6.3.2 the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) the burrowing owl is considered an adequately conserved covered species that may still require focused surveys in certain areas as designated in Figure 6 -4 of the MSHCP. The purpose of Section 6.3.2 of the MSHCP is to provide coverage under the MSHCP for those species for which existing available information was not sufficient, and therefore, survey requirements are incorporated Species Background
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report 7
in the MSHCP to provide the level of information necessary for these species to receive coverage (Dudek & Associates, Inc., 2003).
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey 8
Section 3 Methodology
General weather conditions during each of the surveys were suitable for detections of burrowing owls.
The weather during the surveys consisted of cloudy to clear skies with minimal wind, and temperatures ranging from 44 -60 degrees Fahrenheit ( oF). Surveys are not accepted if they are conducted during rain, high winds (> 20 mph), dense fog, or temperatures over 90oF. The protocol survey for burrowing owl requires a systematic survey of all areas that provide suitable habitat plus a 150- meter (approximately 500 feet) zone of influence ( survey area) on all sides of suitable habitat , where applicable (Exhibit 4, Survey Area and Suitable Habitat ). Since the project site is bordered by residential and commercial developments to the south, and the Metropolitan Water District Water Treatment Plant to the west, a zone of influence was not able to be surveyed by foot to the south and west of the project site. The residential and commercial developments south of the project site do not provide suitable habitat for burrowing owls and were not surveyed for burrowing owls. The area west of the project site, associated with the Metropolitan Water District Water Treatment Plant, was scanned with binoculars from the western boundary of the project site for burrowing owls. Refer to Exhibit 5, Survey Areas and Suitable Habitat.
Survey transects on the project site were oriented north to south and were conducted at a maximum of 30-meter (approximately 100 feet) intervals to ensure 100% visual coverage of all areas in suitable habitat on the project site and within the survey area. The focused burrowing owl surveys w ere conducted during the recognized timeframe (the breeding season is typically March through August) in the morning one hour before sunrise to two hours after sunrise.
Suitable burrows/sites, including rock piles and non-natural substrates, were thoroughly examined for signs of presence. All burrows encountered were examined for shape, scat, pellets, white -wash, feathers, tracks, and prey remains. The location of all suitable burrowing owl habitat, potential owl burrows, burrowing owl sign, and any owls observed were recorded and mapped, with a hand-held GPS unit, if observed. Methods to detect presence of burrowing owl s included direct observation, aural detection, and signs of presence. Binoculars were used to observe distant birds and their activity around potential nesting habitat. During the focused surveys, the survey area was assessed on foot by qualified biologists Thomas J. McGill, Ph.D., Travis J. McGill, Miranda Losing, and Jacob H. Lloyd Davies who are knowledgeable in the habitats and behavior of burrowing owls.
Four focused burrowing owl surveys were conducted on April 24, May 7, May 21, and June 5, 2020.
All surveys were completed between 0600 to 1000 hours. The surveys were conducted to document the presence/absence of burrowing owl on the project site.
Methodology
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report 9
Table 1: Survey Data
Survey
No.
Survey
Date Surveyor Time Temperature
(˚F)
Cloud
Cover
Wind Speed
(mph)
Burrowing
Owl Detected
1 4/24/20 Travis McGill
Miranda Losing
0630-
1000 77-81 0% 1-5 No
2 5/07/20
Travis McGill
Miranda Losing
Jacob Lloyd Davies
0600-
1000 65-70 25% 1-5 No
3 5/21/20 Thomas McGill
Travis McGill
0600-
1000 68-74 10% 1-3 No
4 6/05/20
Travis McGill
Miranda Losing
Jacob Lloyd Davies
0600-
1000 60-62 100% 1-3 No
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BURROWING OWL FOCUSED SURVEY
Survey Area and Suitable Habitat
Exhibit 4
!
0 250 500125
Feet
Source: ESRI Aerial Imagery, Riverside County
Legend
Project Site
Survey Area (500ft Buffer)
Transects
Suitable Habitat
Barton St
Alessandro Blvd
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey 11
Section 4 Results
4.1 EXISTING CONDITIONS
The project site is relatively flat with no areas of significant topographic relief and ranges in elevation from 1,571 to 1,620 feet above sea level and generally slopes from west to east. According to the Custom Soil Resource Report, the project site is underlain by the following soil units: Arlington fine sandy loam (2 to 8 percent slopes), Cieneba sandy loam (15 to 50 percent slopes, eroded), Cieneba rocky sandy loam (15 to 50 percent slopes, eroded), Fallbrook sandy loam (8 to 15 percent slopes, eroded), Fallbrook sandy loam (5 to 8 percent slopes, shallow, eroded), Fallbrook fine sandy loam (8 to 15 percent slopes, shallow, eroded), and Vista coarse sandy loam (8 to 15 percent slopes, eroded).
Land uses in the vicinity of the project site primarily consist of residential, commercial, and industrial developments, and undeveloped/vacant parcels. The site is bordered by the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park to the north and east, Barton Street and a water treatment facility to the west, a storage facility and Alessandro Boulevard to the south. The project site consists of undeveloped, vacant land, portions of which have undergone periodic weed abatement for fire control purposes. The site supports two (2) vegetation communities: non-native grassland and riparian woodland, and one (1) land cover type that would be classified as disturbed (Exhibit 5, Vegetation).
The majority of the project site supports a non- native grassland. This vegetation community is dominated by non-native grasses such as wild oat (Avena fatua), red brome (Bromus madritensus ssp. rubens), cheat grass (Bromus tectorum), and ripgut (Bromus diandrus). Additional vegetation observed within the non -native grassland community includes short- podded mustard ( Hirschfeldia incana ), filaree ( Erodium sp.), California buckwheat ( Eriogonum fasciculatum ), California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), and California-aster (Corethrogyne filaginifolia).
Scattered portions of the project site support drainages that consist of a riparian woodland plant community. This plant community is dominated by willows ( Salix sp.) and cottonwood ( Populus fremontii). Other plant species observed in the riparian woodland include mulefat ( Baccharis salicifolia), stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), other shrubs and herbs, and non-native grasses.
The disturbed areas of the site occur within a network of open, cleared dirt trails that permeate the site.
These areas host frequent human traffic and are either completely devoid of vegetation or support minimal weedy/early successional species.
Based on a review of CDFW’s California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) approximately 8 burrowing owl observations have been recorded within 5 miles of the project site. The nearest occurrence was approximately 1 mile southwest of the project site. Refer to Exhibit 6, CNDDB BUOW Observations.
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BURROWING OWL FOCUSED SURVEY
Vegetation
Exhibit 5
!
0 250 500125
Feet
Source: ESRI Aerial Imagery, Riverside County
Legend
Project Site
Survey Area (500ft Buffer)
Riparian
NNG
Disturbed/Trail
Barton St
Alessandro Blvd
SYCAMORE HILLS DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BURROWING OWL FOCUSED SURVEY
CNDDB BUOW Observations
Exhibit 6
!
0 1.25 2.50.625
Miles
Source: ESRI Aerial Imagery, CDFW CNDDB, Riverside County Legend
Project Site
5 Mile Buffer
!( Burrowing Owl Observations
Results
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey Report 14
4.2 BURROWING OWL FOCUSED SURVEY
The majority of the project site is vegetated with a variety of relatively low-growing plant species that allow for the line-of-sight observation opportunities favored by burrowing owl. However, the majority of the site is densely vegetated following high levels of late spring precipitation, resulting in minimal open areas and limited line-of-sight opportunities. Several small mammal burrows that have the potential to provide suitable burrowing owl nesting habitat (>4 inches in diameter) were observed scattered throughout the project site during the surveys. Despite a systematic search of the project site, no burrowing owls or sign (pellets, feathers, castings, or whitewash ) were observed on or within 500 feet, where accessible, of the project site during the focused surveys.
Avian species observed during the focused surveys include American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), American kestrel ( Falco sparverius), Anna’s hummingbird ( Calypte anna), Bewick’s wren (Thryomanes bewickii), blue grosbeak (Passerina caerulea), bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), California towhee ( Melozone crissalis), common yellowthroat ( Geothlypis trichas ), hooded oriole ( Icterus cucullatus), house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus), lark sparrow (Chondestes grammacus), least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus), lesser goldfinch (Spinus psaltria), mourning dove ( Zenaida macroura), northern harrier (Circus hudsonius), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus), red-tailed hawk ( Buteo jamaicensis), Say’s phoebe ( Sayornis saya), song sparrow (Melospiza melodia), western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta), Wilson’s warbler (Cardellina pusilla), and yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia). Refer to Appendix B for a complete list of wildlife species observed during the surveys.
It should be noted that a burrowing owl focused survey was also conducted in 2018 by Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions, Inc. in accordance with the Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Area (Environmental Programs Department, 2006). No burrowing owl or sign were observed during the 2018 focused surveys.
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey 15
Section 5 Conclusion and Recommendations
Based on the results of the 2018 and 2020 burrowing owl focused survey s, no burrowing owls or evidence of recent or historic use by burrowing owls w ere observed on the project site. As a result, burrowing owls are presumed absent from the project site. O ut of an abundance of caution, and to ensure burrowing owl remain absent from the project site, it is recommended that a 30-day burrowing owl pre-construction clearance survey be conducted in accordance with the Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Area prior to any ground disturbing activities. If burrowing owls and/or birds displaying nesting behaviors are observed within the project site during future construction, further review may be needed to ensure compliance with the MSHCP, MBTA and Fish and Game Code.
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey 16
Section 6 References
AMEC. 2014. Sycamore Hills Distribution Center Project, Focused Surveys for the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher and Least Bell’s Vireo. Unpublished report for Albert A. Webb Associates.
California Burrowing Owl Consortium, 1993. Burrowing Owl Survey Protocol and Mitigation Guidelines. Accessed on the internet at:
www.dfg.ca.gov/wildlife/nongame/docs/boconsortium.pdf
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2019. RareFind 5, California Natural Diversity Data Base, California. Data Base report on threatened, endangered, rare or otherwise sensitive species and communities for the Stelle Peak and Perris 7.5-minute USGS quadrangles.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), 2012. Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation.
Coulombe, H.N. 1971. Behavior and population ecology of the burrowing owl (Speotyto cunicularia) in the Imperial Valley of California. Condor 73: 162-176.
Environmental Programs Department. (2006, March 29). Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions f or the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Co nservation Plan Area. http://www.wrc- rca.org/mshcp-species-survey-protocols/
Haug, E.A., B.A. Millsap, and M.S. Martell. 1993. Burrowing Owl (Speotyto cunicularia). In: A. Poole and F. Gill, editors, Birds of North America, No. 61. Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural Science; Washington DC: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Ramsen, Jr., J.V. 1978. Bird Species of Special Concern in California. Non- game Wildlife Investigations. Wildlife Management Branch Administrative Report No78-1. Report prepared for California Department of Fish and Game.
Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions, Inc. 2018. Biological Resources Report and Western Riverside Multi-species Habitat Conservation Plan Compliance Report . Unpublished report for Ruth Villalobos & Associates.
Appendix A Site Photographs
Appendix A – Site Photographs
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Photograph 1: From the southwest corner of the project site looking north along the western boundary.
Photograph 2: From the southwest corner of the project site looking east along the southwestern boundary of the project site north of the storage facility to the south.
Appendix A – Site Photographs
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Photograph 3: From the northeast corner of the survey area (500-foot buffer) looking south along the western boundary.
Photograph 4: From the northwest corner of the survey area (500-foot buffer) looking southeast across the western half of the project site.
Appendix A – Site Photographs
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Photograph 5: From the southeast portion of the western half of the project site looking north.
Photograph 6: From the middle of t he northern boundary of the survey area looking south across the western half of the project site.
Appendix A – Site Photographs
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Photograph 7: From the northeast corner of the survey area looking southwest across the eastern half of the project site.
Photograph 8: From the middle of the eastern portion of the project site looking south at the southwestern boundary of the project site.
Appendix A – Site Photographs
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Photograph 9: From the middle of the eastern half of the project site looking north.
Photograph 10: From the eastern boundary of the survey area west across the northern exten t of t he survey area.
Appendix A – Site Photographs
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Photograph 11: Looking south from the eastern portion of the survey area.
Photograph 12: From the southeast corner of the survey area looking west across t he southern portion of the site.
Appendix A – Site Photographs
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Photograph 13: From the middle of the project site looking east acro ss non-native grassland on t he eastern portion of the site.
Photograph 14: Looking at the riparian habitat on the southwest corner of the project site, east of t he storage facility.
Appendix B Fauna Compendium
Appendix B – Fauna Compendium
Sycamore Hills Distribution Center
Burrowing Owl Focused Survey
Table B – 1: Wildlife Species
Scientific Name Common Name
Aves Birds
Aeronautes saxatalis white-throated swift
Buteo jamaicensis red-tailed hawk
Buteo lineatus red-shouldered hawk
Callipepla californica California quail
Calypte anna Anna’s hummingbird
Cardellina pusilla Wilson's warbler
Cathartes aura turkey vulture
Chondestes grammacus lark sparrow
Circus hudsonius northern harrier
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow
Falco sparverius American kestrel
Geothlypis trichas common yellowthroat
Haemorhous mexicanus house finch
Icterus cucullatus hooded oriole
Melospiza melodia song sparrow
Melozone crissalis California towhee
Mimus polyglottos northern mockingbird
Myiarchus cinerascens ash-throated flycatcher
Passerina caerulea blue grosbeak
Picoides nuttallii Nuttall’s woodpecker
Pipilo maculatus spotted towhee
Psaltriparus minimus bushtit
Sayornis nigricans black phoebe
Sayornis saya Say's phoebe
Setophaga petechia yellow warbler
Spinus psaltria lesser goldfinch
Stelgidopteryx serripennis northern rough-winged swallow Sturnella neglecta western meadowlark
Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's wren
Tyrannus vociferans Cassin’s kingbird
Vireo bellii pusillus least Bell's vireo
Zenaida macroura mourning dove
Mammalia Mammals
Canis latrans coyote
Otospermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel
Sylvilagus audubonii desert cottontail
Reptilia Reptiles
Sceloporus orcutti granite spiny lizard
Sceloporus occidentalis longipes Great Basin fence lizard