Annual Monitoring Report Program for

RIO SALADO RESTORATION PROJECT-TEMPE REACH

ANNUAL REPORT August 1, 2009 – July 31, 2010

Report Contact: William Sparklin Wildlife Biologist United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services 8836 N. 23rd Ave. Suite 2 Phoenix, AZ 85021 (602) 870-2081 Email: [email protected]

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY There was a 49% increase in the total number of birds observed during surveys at the Rio Salado Restoration Project-Tempe Reach (RSRP-TR) during August 2009 through July 2010 and the previous survey year. The increase was observed in 6 of the 10 bird guilds present at RSRP-TR. Blackbirds, gallinaceous birds, pelicaniformes, raptors, shorebirds, and swallows increased in abundance, while columbids, songbirds, wading birds, and waterfowl decreased. The increases in abundance of birds could be due to a multitude of factors, including regional increases in abundance, recruitment of chicks fledged from RSRP-TR and nearby areas into the local population, the flocking tendency of birds (birds attract more birds), and the change in observers conducting the surveys at Tempe Town Lake. The decreases in abundance of birds could be due to regional decreases in abundance, changes in the amount and distribution of food resources at RSRP-TR and nearby areas, and displacement by construction projects (such as the 202 bridge repairs at station 6), Most likely a combination of these factors is ultimately responsible for the changes in abundance of bird observations at RSRP-TR. The majority of birds at RSRP-TR are using the area for feeding and loafing, although large numbers of cliff swallows use bridges crossing the Salt River and Tempe Town Lake as nesting areas. The lake itself is the major attractant for many bird species found at RSRP-TR, so removal of the attractant is not a realistic option. Instead, wildlife management strategies will have to rely on hazing wildlife either directly by staff or outside contractors, or indirectly through encouraging recreational users of RSRP-TR into those areas used most commonly for feeding and loafing. Plans to achieve this are already in place, and the addition of pedestrian bridges across the east and west dams will discourage (at least temporarily) the birds that use these structures for feeding and loafing. The lake (Tempe drain) that has pooled up against the east dam continues to be a major attractant of wildlife into RSTP-TR. AZ WS continues to recommend working with stakeholders to find a solution that allows for the draining of this lake. Double-crested cormorants in the pelicaniformes guild are the species of most concern in regards to safety of aircraft entering and exiting from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Their numbers are steadily increasing at RSRP-TR, and large numbers of these birds are present in November, December, and January. Their large size and flocking behavior contribute to the risk they present to aircraft entering and exiting the area. On one occasion a flock of cormorants circling above TTL near the west dam was observed diving out of the way of an aircraft approaching to land. Two doublecrested cormorants have been struck at PHX, one in June of 2008, and one in February of 2009.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction………...……………………………………………………….………4 II. Methods…………..……………………………………………………………….. 4 III. Guild Identification…………………………………………………………………4 IV. Continued Monitoring Locations……………………………………………………5 V. Continued Monitoring Results………………………………………………………6 Station 1……………………………………………………………………………..9 Station 2……………………………………………………………………………..10 Station 3……..………………………………………………………………………11 Station 4…………..…………………………………………………………………13 Station 5…………………….……………………………………………………….14 Station 6……………………………………………………………………………..15 Station 7……………………………………………………………………………..16 Station 8………………………………….…………………….……………………17 Station 9……………………………………………………………..………………19 Station 10……………………………………………………………..……………..20 VI. Discussion of 5-year trends…………………………………………………………21 VII. Recommendations…………………………………………………….…………….24 VIII. Wildlife Management………………….……………………………………………28 IX. Summary …………………………………………………………………………...30 X. Appendices ………………………………………………………………………...32

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I. INTRODUCTION The U.S. Department of Agriculture - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service - Wildlife Services (WS) entered into an agreement with the United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) on August 1, 2002 because of concern about potential wildlife attractant presented at Rio Salado Restoration Project-Tempe Reach (RSRP-TR) and proximity (i.e. within 5 statute miles (8,047 meters)) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The agreement was for a part-time wildlife hazard biologist to conduct a Wildlife Hazard Assessment (WHA) and prepare a Wildlife Hazard Management Plan (WHMP) within the boundaries of RSRP-TR to determine if the restoration project (i.e. current and proposed activities, wildlife populations and abundance) would present a hazard to aircraft at PHX. The contract would be extended until completion of construction of all three phases within RSRP-TR. As per the agreement, additional wildlife monitoring is being conducted in order to assess potential wildlife hazards created as a result of changes in wildlife patterns and movements, and species diversity and abundance as the Rio Salado Project develops. Annual reports are submitted to the RSRP-TR Wildlife Coordinator regarding the following: 1) monitoring results, including wildlife activity and recently developed hazards; 2) wildlife management methods employed; and 3) species and numbers of wildlife removed.

II. METHODS Time Area Count Survey for Birds The time area count (transect) survey is a standardized sampling design, based on the United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s Breeding Bird Survey. Bird species data is collected from established observation points along the survey route described in the next section The survey is conducted sequentially to afford a better sampling of each station at different times. For example, day one is surveyed beginning with station 1 and run sequentially through the stations. Day two is then surveyed beginning with station 2 and run sequentially through the stations ending at station 1, and so on, until all stations have been surveyed at different time periods. Morning and evening time area count surveys for birds are conducted approximatley every other week. Incidental observations of mammals and other wildlife outside of the time area count surveys for birds were also included and are included in the discussion.

III. Guild Identification For the purposes of this report bird species were categorized into guilds and are defined as follows: Raptors include all hawks, falcons, eagles, owls, vultures, and ravens; Blackbirds including red-winged and brewer’s blackbirds, great-tailed grackles, brown headed cowbirds, and European starlings; Columbids include all doves and pigeons; Gallinaceous birds include quail and roadrunners; Pelicaniformes includes all pelicans and cormorants; Shorebirds include all killdeer, stilts, and other related birds; Small Perching Birds includes all passerine birds and hummingbirds not included in other guilds, Swallows includes all swallows, swifts, and night hawks; Wading birds includes all herons and egrets; and Waterfowl include all ducks, coots, grebes and geese. A more in-depth analysis of the guilds is included in Appendix A.

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IV. CONTINUED MONITORING LOCATIONS Continued monitoring of wildlife hazards is conducted formally by surveying a route within RSRP-TR approximately four times each month – twice at sunrise and twice at sunset. Each station is surveyed for five minutes and all bird and mammal activity is recorded. The survey route consists of stations located in the Salt River bed in/near areas proposed for or currently containing Rio Salado Project development. The stations are located in the following areas: 1) east of Priest Road on the north bank of the Salt River bed, 2) the intersection of the west dam of Tempe Town Lake (TTL) and Salt River bed, 3) TTL just east of Mill Avenue bridge northbound, 4) TTL just east of the Marina, 5) TTL east of Rural Road, 6) the intersection of TTL and the Indian Bend Wash (IBW) under Interstate 202, 7) the intersection of east dam of TTL and the Salt River bed, 8) on the east bank of the IBW, south of Curry Road, and 9) the east bank of the Rio Salado Golf Course in the IBW, 10) north side of Loop 202 between College and Mill Avenue just south of the Indian Bend Pump Ditch and Papago Park. There were a total of 37 surveys conducted for each route between August 1, 2009 and July 31, 2010. The FAA Advisory Circular recommends separations when sighting any wildlife attractant near aircraft movement areas. The distance between the wildlife attractant and the airport’s aircraft movement areas, loading ramps or aircraft parking areas should be 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) for airports serving turbine-powered aircraft. This area, referred to by WS as the Critical Zone, encompasses 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) from an airport’s aircraft movement areas. A distance of five (5) statute miles (8,047 meters) is recommended for the approach or departure airspace if the wildlife attractant may cause hazardous wildlife movement into or across that airspace. This area, referred to by WS as the Expanded Critical Zone, contains the area five (5) statute miles (8,047 meters) off of each runway end. The Expanded Critical Zone reflects the boundaries defined by the FAA. While Site 1 is at the transition of the Critical Zone to the Expanded Critical Zone, the majority of RSRP-TR is located within the Expanded Critical Zone of PHX. The boundaries of this survey were from the Salt Riverbed at Priest Dr. east to McClintock Rd. along Tempe Town Lake (TTL) and north through the Indian Bend Wash to McKellips Rd.

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Figure 1. Map of Survey Area and Stations.

V. CONTINUED MONITORING RESULTS In all 12796 birds were observed during the Time Area Count Surveys. The average number of birds observed per survey was 346. Each guilds contribution to the total number of birds observed is shown in Figure 2. The top 10 most abundant bird species and total number of observations at RSRP-TR were: 1. Double-crested cormorants (3786), 2. Cliff swallows (3713) 3. European starlings (1086), 4. Mourning doves (785), 5. Rock doves (621), 6. Great-tailed Grackles (561), 7. American coots (325), 8. Snowy egrets (266), 9. Mallards (218), and 10. House finches (169). Other notable species due to their potential hazard to aircraft and their rank in total numbers were 11. Great egrets (161) and 15. Great-blue herons (116). Figure 2. Total count and percent contribution by guild

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Seasonal patterns in bird abundance were observed as expected (Figure 3.) The guild Pelicaniformes peaked in abundance in November with large numbers of these birds using the lake and associated water control structures for feeding and loafing areas. The waterfowl and wading bird guilds increased during late-fall and early-winter as migratory birds took residence in the area and decreased again in early spring as these birds migrated out of the area to their summer nesting grounds. Swallows peaked in abundance in April, with adult birds easily observed during nest construction. Swallows remained abundant through late spring and early summer, but their presence in surveys decreased as the birds became more dispersed. Blackbirds, columbids, gallinaceous birds, raptors, shorebirds, and songbirds all remained in relatively constant numbers throughout the year. Most birds observed were either feeding or loafing (Figure 4.) The lake itself and its associated structures were the most commonly used feeding and loafing areas. Cliff swallows were observed nesting in abundant numbers on several of the bridges within the study area, especially the Priest Drive Bridge. Rock doves also used these same structures for roosting and nesting, but in much smaller numbers. European starlings, Brown-headed cowbirds, and Red-winged blackbirds were all observed roosting in native and non-native vegetation at RSRP-TR. Figure 3. Monthly abundance of birds during surveys, August 2009-July 2010.

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Habitat use varied across guilds (Figure 5.) Blackbirds, columbids, gallinaceous birds, raptors, and songbirds used native and non-natives trees, shrubs, and brush regularly for feeding, loafing, and roosting. Shorebirds used temporary standing water for feeding, and were the only guild observed to use temporary standing water during surveys. Blackbirds, columbids, pelicaniformes, and wading birds frequently used structures such as the east and west dam walls to feed, perch, and loaf. Pelicaniformes, raptors, shorebirds, wading birds, and waterfowl all used the Salt River west of TTL for feeding and loafing. This was especially apparent after the floods in March as the water level was receding. Cliff swallows used the Salt River for feeding and nested above it on the Priest Dr. Bridge. Blackbirds, columbids, and gallinaceous birds used grassy areas for feeding a large proportion of the time. These species are attracted to maintained grassy areas because of abundant seeds and the short grass height which does not obstruct their view of potential predators. Killdeer, house sparrows, and house finches also used grassy areas, but not as often as the aforementioned guilds. The lake was used heavily for feeding and loafing by pelicaniformes, shorebirds, wading birds, and waterfowl guilds. Osprey also fed frequently in the lake, and were the only raptor species observed directly using the lake during surveys. Figure 4. Bird activity by guild during surveys, August 2009-July 2010

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Figure 5. Habitat use by guild during surveys during August 2009-July 2010

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RESULTS BY STATION Station One Station one overlooks the Salt River basin and is located under the PHX flight path. This is the closest site to PHX and is at the border of the Critical Zone and Expanded Critical Zone. It was composed mostly of scrub desert and riverbed. There was riparian type vegetation to the east at an outfall. Swallows made up the majority of birds seen at this observation point, due in large part to nesting cliff swallows on the Priest Drive Bridge (Figure 6). Pelicaniformes were also abundant at this station, with double-crested cormorants at RSRP-TR using the Salt River as a flight corridor. Most birds observed were either in the Salt River and its emergent vegetation or using the Priest Drive Bridge (Figure 7). Aircraft on final approach to PHX from the east are crossing this area or just north of this observation point. This location is within the 10,000 ft monitored critical zone. Aircraft crossing the riverbed at this location are most at risk for high flying, flocking, and/or migrating birds such as raptors (e.g., vultures and hawks), wading birds (e.g., herons), pelicaniformes (e.g., cormorants and pelicans), waterfowl (e.g., ducks and geese), columbids, and blackbirds. Figure 6. Total number of birds observed at Station 1 from August, 2009 to July, 2010

Because this site is in the immediate proximity of PHX runways, all types of birds are considered by WS to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. Water birds, wading birds, blackbirds, pigeons, and doves are all seen utilizing the river bed. By eliminating the vegetative cover and facilitating the flow of water from the north outfall drain into the low flow channel, the attractiveness of this habitat should decrease. The decreased use of this drainage by hazardous wildlife would enhance aviation safety at PHX. This site is, in general, a moderate risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX due to the high number of large birds observed in this area. Decreasing the number of double-crested cormorants using RSRP-TR and thereby

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traveling along the Salt River Corridor could reduce this area to a low risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX. Figure 7. Bird use of habitat at Station 1 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

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Station Two Station two overlooks TTL to the east, the west dam, and scrub desert to the west. It is under the PHX flight path and within the Expanded Critical Zone. Swallows (cliff swallows) and Pelicaniformes (double-crested cormorants) were the two most abundant guilds (species) at this station (Figure 8). Blackbirds, wading birds, and waterfowl were also common at this site. Birds were primarily feeding in the water being released from the dam into the Salt River at this site, although birds also used to the dam and associated structures for loafing and feeding (Figure 9). Coyotes were also often seen in dry portions of the riverbed at this location. Figure 8. Total number of birds observed at Station 2 from August 1, 2008 to July 31, 2009

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Figure 9. Bird use of habitat at Station 2 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

The large bodied water birds from the pelicaniformes, wading birds, and waterfowl guilds are of the most concern from an aviation safety standpoint. A proactive management plan for this area should be implemented and should include harassment with pyrotechnics, use of exclusionary devices, and/or removal of problem birds depending on the magnitude of any hazardous situation at hand. Due to this sites proximity of PHX runways, all types of birds are considered by WS to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. Cormorants, herons, egrets, and ducks are all frequently seen utilizing the Tempe dam, lake walls, and the surrounding vegetation. This site is, in general, a moderate risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX due to the number of birds observed in this area. Reducing the number of large bodied water birds found at this location through habitat modification, harassment, and removal could reduce this site to low risk.

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Station 3 Station three overlooks TTL, office building landscaping, Hayden Flour Mill and three bridges over TTL. It is within the Expanded Critical Zone and is under the PHX flight path. Swallows were the most abundant guild at this site, with cliff swallows nesting on the bridges across TTL and foraging above the lake for insects (Figure 10). Columbids were the second most abundant guild, with rock and mourning doves many foraging for grit in the exposed dirt and gravel, and rock doves roosting in the bridge structures (Figure 11). At the request of City of Tempe personnel, WS Biologists conducted pigeon management activities at Tempe Town Lake and removed 80 pigeons from the area. Pigeons make up about 5% of the observed birds RSRP-TR. Reducing their numbers not only reduces human health threats to lake visitors, but also minimizes threats to aircraft approaching PHX from the east.

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Figure 10. Total number of birds observed at Station 3 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

Figure 11. Bird use of habitat at Station 3 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

Due to this sites proximity of PHX runways, all types of birds are considered by WS to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. Blackbirds, pigeons, and doves are all frequently seen utilizing the Mill Avenue Bridge and others, lake walls, and the surrounding vegetation. This site is, in general, a moderate risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX due to the high number of birds observed in this area. WS recommends that Tempe Town Lake continue to discourage visitors from feeding the birds. By eliminating perching and loafing

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habitat under the bridges, the attractiveness of this habitat should decrease, thereby reducing the use of this area by hazardous wildlife which would enhance aviation safety at PHX. Station 4 Station four overlooks a horse boarding facility, office buildings, grassy landscaping, bridges and TTL. It is located within the Expanded Critical Zone and is under the PHX flight path. Blackbirds and columbids made up the majority of birds seen at this observation point (Figure 12). A bald eagle frequents a large eucalyptus tree near this station as a perching site, and was detected during this year’s bird surveys. Birds at this site used a variety of habitats available to them (Figure 13). Figure 12. Total number of birds observed at the Station 4 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010.

Figure 13. Bird use of habitat at Station 4 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010.

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Aircraft on final approach to PHX from the east are crossing this area or just north of this survey point. Aircraft crossing the riverbed at this location are most at risk from high flying, flocking, and/or migrating birds such as raptors (e.g., vultures and hawks), wading birds (e.g., herons), Pelicaniformes (e.g., cormorants and pelicans), waterfowl (e.g., ducks and geese), Columbids, and blackbirds. Because this site is along the flight path of PHX runways, all types of birds are considered to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. Waterfowl, wading birds, blackbirds, and doves are all seen utilizing this site. This site is, in general, a low risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX due to the low numbers of these birds observed in this area. Station 5 Station five overlooks TTL, the east dam and undeveloped area south of TTL. It is within the Expanded Critical Zone and is under the PHX flight path. Pelicaniformes made up the majority of birds seen at this observation point, with blackbirds, columbids, swallows, and waterfowl commonly being seen during surveys (Figure 14). The “Lake ” (TTL) cover type represented 49% of all habitat use by birds at this location in the RSRP-TR surveys (Figure 15). Because of the presence of Tempe Town Lake, there are various species of waterfowl, wading birds, pelicans, and cormorants that utilize this habitat and these larger-bodied birds are the main species of concern in regards to aviation safety. Because this site is along the flight path of PHX runways, all types of birds are considered to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. Waterfowl, wading birds, blackbirds, and doves were all seen utilizing this site. This site is, in general, a moderate risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX due to the high numbers of pelicaniformes and waterfowl observed in this area. Figure 14. Total number of birds observed at Station 5 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

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Figure 15. Bird use of habitat at Station 5 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010.

Station 6 Station six overlooks TTL, Interstate 202, and Indian Bend Wash. It is located within the Expanded Critical Zone and is under the PHX flight path. There was active construction under the Interstate 202 bridge for several months during the survey year, and this signifigantly decreased the number of birds observed and their composition within guilds at this station. Swallows were the most commonly observed guild at this location, followed by columbids and pelicaniformes (Figure 16). The lake cover type had the highest habitat use by birds at this location in the RSRP-TR surveys (Figure 17). Structures were the second highest cover type used. The primary attractant at was the support beams which provided a nesting area for pigeons and swallows. Figure 16. Total number of birds observed at Station 6 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010.

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Because this site is along the flight path of PHX, all types of birds are considered to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. Pelicaniformes, waterfowl, wading birds, blackbirds, pigeons, and doves are all seen utilizing the area. This site is, in general, a low risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX due to the location and type of birds observed in this area. Figure 17. Bird use of habitat at the Station 6 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010.

Station 7 Station seven overlooks the desert scrub in the Salt Riverbed basin (proposed Phase 3 of RSRPTR) and is within the Expanded Critical Zone. Pelicaniformes (i.e. cormorants) made up 86% of birds using Station seven (Figure 18). During one survey in November of 2009, approximately 18 ATTACHMENT B

800 cormorants were observed either loafing on the east dam and associated structures or in feeding “rafts” in the lake. Cormorants and wading birds frequently were observed utilizing this site by loafing. Attractants at this site included the flooded river bed, vegetation, and east dam wall (both rubber bladders and concrete piers) (Figure 19). Because this site is along the flight path of PHX, all types of birds are considered to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. The most hazardous birds at this location would be larger-bodied, high-flying birds such as cormorants, waterfowl, and wading birds. This site is, in general, a moderate risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX. Discouraging birds from using the east dam wall for loafing and feeding through the use of exclusion devices or harassment could reduce this risk. WS continues to strongly recommend working with other stakeholders to find a solution to drain the lake that has pooled up against the east dam wall and creates another wildlife attractant bringing large numbers of cormorants, herons, egrets, and waterfowl to the area.

Figure 18. Total number of birds observed at Station 7 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

Figure 19. Bird use of habitat at Station 7 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

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Station 8 Station eight is located within the Indian Bend Wash. The wash is comprised mostly of desert scrub vegetation. Several commercial businesses and a golf course are also located in the area. It is located within the Expanded Critical Zone and is located under the PHX flight path. Blackbirds and columbids make up the majority of birds found at this location. (Figure 20).

Figure 20. Total number of birds observed at Station 8 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

Figure 21. Bird use of habitat at Station 8 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

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Most birds observed at this site are taking advantage of the native vegetation available in the wash, although rock doves and house sparrows are frequently seen preching on strucutures (Figure 21). Because this site is not along the direct flight path of PHX, all types of birds are still considered to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. However, this site is, in general, a low risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX.

Station 9 Station nine overlooks the Rio Salado Golf Course in the Indian Bend Wash. This site is the furthest away from PHX, but is within the Expanded Critical Zone. Columbids and blackbirds make up the majority of birds observed at this site (Figure 22). The golf course was an attractant for the doves because of the grassy areas as well as the water from the irrigation and in the low drainage canal that runs through the golf course (Figure 23). Because this site is not along the direct flight path of PHX, all types of birds are still considered to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. However, this site is, in general, a low risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX. Figure 22. Total number of birds observed at Station 9 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

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Figure 23. Bird use of habitat at Station 9 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

Station 10 Station ten is a 13 acre LoPiano Bosque habitat that stretches along the north side of Loop 202 between college and Mill Avenues just south of the Indian Bend Pump Ditch and Papago Park. The Bosque has developed into a habitat that supports a variety of wildlife species. This location is the second closest site to PHX and is at the border of the Critical Zone and Expanded Critical Zone. Blackbirds and songbirds make up the majority of birds seen at this site (Figure 24). European starlings were the species that contributed most to the blackbird guild, and were frequently seen flying in and out of this area. Birds at this location primarily used trees/brush 90% of the time during the surveys (Figure 25). The creek was used 5% of the time at this location. The LoPiano area is an attractant for songbirds and Gallinaceous birds because of the desert scrub consisting of common Sonoran Desert trees to include Velvet, Honey and

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Screwbean Mesquites, Catclaw Acacia, several species of Palo Verde, Cottonwood, Ash, Willow, and Ironwood. This natural vegetation was the primary habitat observed at this site. Because this site is not along the direct flight path of PHX, all types of birds are still considered to be direct hazards to aircraft arriving and departing PHX. However, this site is, in general, a low risk for aircraft flying into and out of PHX. Figure 24. Total number of birds observed at Station 10 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

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Figure 25. Bird use of habitat at Station 10 from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010

VI. DISCUSSION OF FIVE YEAR TRENDS The past 5 years of monitoring bird abundance allows for the examination of trends in abundance of those guilds found at RSRP-TR. In some case, trends in abundance may just reflect regional trends, but may also be indicative of the local population found at RSRP-TR. Although 5 years of survey data is really just a “snapshot” of long-term population trends, it does allow us to make some predictions about future bird abundance at RSRP-TR and suggestions for managing these trends if necessary. We use the average number of birds per survey within each guild for comparisons between survey years because the number of surveys conducted varied each year. The blackbird and columbid guilds have shown very similar trends and have had an overall decrease in abundance of 63% and 68% since the 2005-2006 survey year (Figure 25). At RSRPTR, the blackbird guild is mainly comprised of great-tailed grackles, red-winged blackbirds, and European starlings. Breeding Birds Survey data for Arizona for the period of 1980-2007 shows a slight increase in great-tailed grackles and red-winged blackbirds, and a slight decrease in European starlings, so regional data does not help explain the decreasing abundance seen at RSRP-TR. It is likely that local changes in the relative availability of resources are responsible for the decline. The columbid guild at RSRP-TR is mainly comprised of mourning doves and rock doves (pigeons). Mourning doves have shown a decrease of 68% in surveys over the past 5 years, while Rock doves have shown a similar decrease of 78% (Figure 25). The mourning dove population in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s Western Management Unit (which includes Arizona) has shown a slightly negative trend over the past 10 years based on Breeding Birds Survey data, but this does not fully explain the large decrease in abundance of mourning doves and rock doves seen at RSRP-TR. On the local level, it is likely that the same factors

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influencing the decrease in abundance of blackbirds and the lethal removal of pigeons by WS are responsible for the decrease in columbids. The songbird, gallinaceous bird, and shorebird guilds occur in low numbers during surveys but have remained relatively constant in abundance over the past 5 years (Figure 25). These three guilds contain a diverse array of species, and regional changes in abundance in any one species probably would contribute little to an overall change at RSRP-TR. The wading bird guild is largely represented by great and snowy egrets and great blue herons at RSRP-TR (Figure 26). For the period of 1980-2007, Breeding Bird Survey data for Arizona shows a 23% decrease in the number of great egrets while great-blue herons and snowy egrets showed increases of 6 % and 30%. The slowly increasing trend shown in this guilds abundance in surveys at RSRP-TR during 2005-2010 reflects this regional change in abundance, and may also be a result of the flocking tendency of these birds and the additional habitat created by the lake backed up against the east dam in the Salt River floodplain. The waterfowl guild has shown a slightly increasing trend over the 5 year period (Figure 26). American coots and mallards contribute the highest number of individuals to the waterfowl guild during surveys, and both these species have shown small increases in the Breeding Birds Survey data for Arizona for the period of 1980-2007. Similar to wading birds, the flocking tendency of these birds and the additional habitat created by the lake backed up against the east dam in the Salt River floodplain may also explain some of the increase in abundance seen at RSRP-TR.

Figure 25. Average number of birds observed per survey for blackbird, columbid, gallinaceous, shorebird, and songbird guilds for survey years between 2005 and 2010

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The abundance of raptors has also remained fairly constant (Figure 26). Most raptors are territorial, with pairs defending their territory from other members of their species and closely related species with similar foraging habits. It is likely that available habitat at RSRP-TR is currently occupied and numbers of raptors will remain fairly constant in the future without the creation of additional habitat. Small seasonal increases in abundance could be seen when young are fledging, and also during migration when transient individuals are present. Swallow abundance initially decreased but have shown an overall increase in abundance since 2005 (Figure 26). The decreases in abundance seen in some survey years may be due to differences in observers and timing of the surveys. Cliff swallows constitute the vast majority of individuals in this guild, and they are readily observable during nest construction at the several bridges crossing TTL and the Salt River. The overall increase in numbers is probably the natural result of recruitment into the nesting colonies, and will continue until the colonies relocate or run out of additional nesting habitat. Figure 26. Average number of birds observed per survey for swallow, wading bird, waterfowl, pelicaniformes, and raptor guilds for survey years between 2005 and 2010

Lastly, the pelicaniformes guild has been steadily increasing since 2005. Double-crested cormorants (DCCO) compromise over 99% of the members of this guild at RSRP-TR, with brown pelicans comprising a tiny remainder of the guild. Neo-tropical cormorants, a very closely related species often occur in small numbers within larger flocks of DCCO’s and likely co-occur at RSRP-TR, but have not been identified during surveys. Based on BBS data from 1980-2007, DCCO’s have increased 30% in Arizona. At RSRP-TR they have increased from an

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average of 1.5 birds per survey in 2005 to an average of 102.7 birds per survey in 2010. Cormorants take advantage of abundant natural and stocked forage fish available in TTL, and use the dams and associated structures for loafing. Not only are cormorants capable of consuming large quantities of fish, they are also a concern in regards to aviation safety. Since 2000, there have been 61 reported aircraft strikes involving DCCO’s (including 2 at PHX), with costs for repairs averaging 44,567 per strike. As long as there are sufficient resources (fish and structures for loafing) and no active management program designed to harass and remove DCCO’s from RSRP-TR, the number of birds observed is expected to increase.

VII. RECOMMENDATIONS One major objective of this annual report is to continue to identify wildlife attractants and landuse practices at RSRP-TR and surrounding areas that may contribute to wildlife hazards on the PHX airfield. The following recommendations are provided as a means to alleviate the hazards that were identified at RSRP-TR from August 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009. Management recommendations should be incorporated into a WHMP in order for RSRP-TR to reduce the potential for an aircraft/wildlife strike. It will be necessary to actively monitor and manage local wildlife habitats. If followed, these recommendations should result in a reduction of current wildlife hazards; however, they do not diminish the necessity of continued monitoring for new hazards that may arise as conditions change. Four approaches are recognized for reducing wildlife hazards at airports, habitat modification (i.e., altering habitat to become less attractive to wildlife); exclusion (i.e., installing physical barriers to exclude certain wildlife species); behavior modification (i.e., dissuading wildlife from performing hazardous activities); population reduction (i.e., reducing hazardous wildlife populations or species). Wildlife hazard management methods available for certain species or groups of species should be implemented by an individual or group trained in managing wildlife hazards. Continue to Develop the WHMP Based On the Annual Reports A WHMP is a document that identifies the cooperator’s roles and responsibilities for implementing the recommendations outlined in the Annual Report. Also included in the WHMP is a protocol for monitoring and responding to potentially hazardous wildlife situations. The responsibility of development, approval, and implementation of the WHMP remains with the City of Tempe. WS suggests coordinating with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport personnel to develop one WHMP which covers both properties. Continue to Contract a Wildlife Hazard Biologist A wildlife hazard biologist, certified in wildlife hazard management, should be available at RSRP-TR. The wildlife hazard biologist should work closely with the wildlife coordinator in analyzing wildlife hazards and determining a practical solution for observed hazards. The wildlife hazard biologist should conduct additional monitoring of wildlife within the Critical Zone (10,000 feet from an airport’s aircraft movement areas) and the Expanded Critical Zone of RSRP-TR (5 miles from runway ends) to better evaluate existing and developing wildlife hazards. The wildlife hazard biologist should be responsible for supervising and conducting wildlife management activities (i.e., habitat modification, exclusion, relocation, harassment,

27 ATTACHMENT B

population reduction) in cooperation with the wildlife coordinator. The wildlife hazard biologist should be included in reviewing design plans for new structures or renovation of existing structures and other land-use changes around RSRP-TR, to discourage use by wildlife. Any new project within the Critical zones of PHX should be evaluated by COT and WS for potential impacts from wildlife on aviation safety. The wildlife hazard biologist can also train the appropriate RSRP-TR personnel in species identification for recognition and response to wildlife hazards and the application of certain wildlife hazard management techniques (i.e., frightening devices). Furthermore, the wildlife hazard biologist should be available to assist with other wildlife issues at RSRP-TR as they arise. WS has assisted COT with wildlife conflicts and with evaluating proposed projects to be located around TTL since August, 2000. COT continues to have WS review projects, including the Tempe Performing Arts Center, Light Rail Transit Bridge, Hayden Ferry Lakeside, South Bank Linear Park, USACE Habitat Restoration Project Phases of RSRP-TR, SunCorp Rio East Business Park and North Bank Linear Park. Recommendations provided by WS have always been considered and many have been included in revisions to these plans. COT has utilized WS for management control measures for nuisance species since August, 2000. Pigeon management has been ongoing. COT has made changes to the Hayden Flour Mill, a roosting habitat for pigeons, to be inaccessible to discourage roosting and nesting behavior around RSRP-TR. Obtain the Necessary Permits to Manage Wildlife COT may choose to contract with WS or other individuals with current permits to manage wildlife or COT may choose to acquire their own permits to obtain authority to manage wildlife. If so, RSRP-TR management should obtain a depredation permit from the USFWS and necessary permits from the AGFD to ensure a rapid response to wildlife hazards. RSRP-TR does not currently possess any permits to manage State or Federally protected wildlife. The ability to respond to hazardous situations in a prompt and efficient manner is paramount to ensuring air safety and may sometimes require the lethal removal of hazardous wildlife. In addition, ARS Title 32 and AAC Title 4 apply to structural pest control certifications and use. RSRP-TR should review these titles and regulations prior to administering pesticides. To ensure that all permit conditions are followed. Landscaping At/Around RSRP-TR Landscaping vegetation within the 10,000 foot (3 kilometers) radius of PHX as part of the USACE environmental restoration project should continue to use a xeriscape design. Many different vegetative types attract wildlife for feeding, nesting and roosting opportunities. In addition, watering systems for landscaped plants can also attract wildlife for drinking and bathing. Incorporating native desert xeriscape at or around RSRP-TR should help decrease populations of hazardous wildlife in the area and eliminate the need for constant watering of plants. Native desert xeriscape should include plant species native to lower Sonoran deserts and comprise a simple, uncluttered appearance (i.e., cacti, yuccas, dwarf varieties of desert trees, shrubs, ground cover and rocks). WS has compiled a list of plant species recommended for use at airports located in arid environments. Trees should be maintained at shorter heights to discourage roosting and perching activities. Landscape plantings may improve the appearance of the RSRP-TR area, but plants that provide perching or nesting sites, food such as berries, nuts, fruit, or standing water at the bases (from 28 ATTACHMENT B

irrigation lines) can contribute to increased bird and mammal presence, thereby compromising human safety. Shrubs should be planted far enough apart so thick convergent growth does not develop. Ornamental trees should be sparsely branched and limited to areas immediately adjacent to buildings. In addition to incorporating native desert xeriscape into future landscaping projects, RSRP-TR should not place turf areas within the 10,000 foot (3 kilometers) radius of PHX. Mowed and watered lawns are quite attractive to several species of birds. Food, such as insects, rodents, and seeds, become exposed during and after mowing and bathing and drinking opportunities become available during sprinkler system use. When possible, mowing and watering lawns should be conducted at night or during the middle of the day when birds are fairly inactive. If grass is used, standard recommendations for grass management are to maintain grass at 6-10 inches (1525 cm) to reduce the numbers of flocking birds (i.e., pigeons, doves, blackbirds) attracted to the area. In addition to managing grass height, timing of mowing schedules and grass re-seeding are also important in the reduction of wildlife hazards. In addition to incorporating native desert xeriscape into future landscaping projects, RSRP-TR may want to consider utilizing artificial turf in future projects to further reduce the attractiveness to wildlife. Vegetation of various heights grows within the perimeter of RSRP-TR, which creates a food source and shelter for many species of wildlife. Weeds, especially those that produce seeds, should be managed using an Integrated Pest Management Program (IPMP) including the use of herbicides. Large, dense vegetation can provide habitat and food sources for animals such as coyotes, rabbits, birds, rodents and reptiles. Prey animals (i.e., small birds, rodents, rabbits, reptiles) may attract predators to RSRP-TR. Predator animals (i.e., coyotes, hawks, owls) are significant strike hazards and must be discouraged. Coyotes are also a human health and safety threat in parklike areas of RSPR-TR. In addition, any cattails or other vegetation growing along the sides of the lake should be removed. Removal of aquatic vegetation will reduce the potential for the vegetation areas to spread and thereby reducing the attractiveness for wildlife. Vegetative understories in the RSRP-TR are likely to provide nesting sources for a variety of wildlife that are a concern for aviation safety. Reducing and/or clearing these areas periodically may be necessary and should be included in the management plan. The objective of the project should, therefore, be modified to account for this management activity. Nest or Egg Removal and Exclusion in Facilities Pigeons roosting and loafing in structures around RSRP-TR may present health and safety hazards or nuisances as well being strike hazards. RSRP-TR should monitor roosting and nesting activity on buildings and bridges within the area and remove any pigeon nests found. Exclusion generally provides the most cost-effective, long-term measure for reducing nesting activity in buildings. COT has installed exclusions on the Hayden Flour Mill, a roosting habitat for pigeons, to be inaccessible to discourage roosting and nesting behavior around RSRP-TR. Current structures should be evaluated and future building designs made with the reduction of wildlife in mind. The wildlife coordinator and wildlife hazard biologist should be present during meetings involving the design of new structures or modification of existing structures to provide input on the potential for reducing wildlife attractants. Structures should not be designed with ledges or perch areas underneath roofs, to eliminate perching and nesting habitat. If changes in 29 ATTACHMENT B

design of the proposed structures are not feasible, bird netting, metal spiking, or other exclusionary devices should be applied to areas if birds begin nesting or perching under structures. Ceilings of ramadas or other “carport” type structures should be fitted with sheet metal or netting to hide exposed perching areas. In addition, lighting should be flush with the ceiling to prevent birds from nesting on them. Reduce Standing Water in Riverbeds Pools of standing water located in the Salt Riverbed to the east and west of TTL were observed to attract numerous species of wildlife after storm events. WS recommends constructing a lowflow channel to direct water from east of the dam to a pump to bypass TTL. Other management methods, such as repellents and netting, may also be employed around areas of standing water to dissuade birds from using the area. Standing water can also become breeding grounds for mosquitoes which can attract insect-eating birds and bats and become vectors for diseases. Therefore, water should be narrow, fast-flowing, and have steep slopes to reduce its attractiveness to wildlife found in this area and to minimize thickets of emergent aquatic vegetation species. This area should also be amenable to the mechanical clearing of vegetation on an intermittent and/or seasonal basis to minimize a potentially hazardous wildlife attraction. Manage Weeds An IPMP should be implemented to minimize weed outbreaks at RSRP-TR. The wildlife coordinator should make sure the appropriate person or group is available to use these products. Most herbicides are economically effective for reducing the availability of food sources (i.e., weeds, seeds, flowers) for wildlife in and around the area. Manage Invertebrates An IPMP should be implemented to minimize insect outbreaks at RSRP-TR. Applicators of pesticides must be properly certified under State law by the Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission. The wildlife coordinator should make sure the appropriate person or group is available to use these products. Most pesticides are economically effective for reducing the availability of food sources (i.e., insects) for wildlife in and around the area. Populations of insects should be managed where necessary, especially around standing water used as breeding grounds with the appropriate Integrated Pest Management Tool. Adopt a Bird Hazing Program at RSRP-TR An active bird hazing (deploying frightening devices) program should be implemented at RSRPTR, especially during the migratory season (March-June), to deter birds. Bird hazing may include laser lights and pyrotechnics. Laser lights have been successfully tested by NWRC, a WS research facility, for many types of birds including blackbirds and waterfowl. Birds should be harassed away from Critical Zones as soon as they are observed, since birds that are allowed to remain to feed or loaf in the area, will be more difficult to disperse. Hazardous species, including but not necessarily limited to, mourning doves, blackbirds, gulls, vultures, and California brown pelicans (a Threatened and Endangered species permit is needed to manage California brown pelicans), should be managed to immediately through conduct of harassment (i.e., pyrotechnics, vehicles, noise, etc.) or lethal removal. While some species clearly present a greater hazard than others, all have the potential to be involved with a damaging strike with an aircraft.

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Remove Litter and Contain Trash Trash and debris was rarely observed on the ground around RSRP-TR; however, continual maintenance is advised. Litter attracts flocks of birds, including pigeons and great-tailed grackles. Clean up windblown litter, trash and debris and place lids securely on garbage cans. Events, such as festivals, tend to leave debris around the grassy areas. Trash collection sweeps should continue to be implemented following special events as well as on a regular basis around RSRP-TR. Trash cans should be fitted with tight fitting lids. Prohibit Feeding of Wildlife Increased public use of RSRP-TR may create a need to monitor and manage the feeding of wildlife. Intentional feeding of birds by people at RSRP-TR could cause increased populations of wildlife, which can increase wildlife hazards at PHX. Employees and patrons should not be allowed to feed wildlife at RSRP-TR. Wildlife feeding typically occurs at lake side and in park areas. Continue to post signs to educate personnel and patrons on associations between feeding animals and creating wildlife hazards. Personnel involved in work within RSRP-TR should be empowered to enforce a strict no feeding of wildlife policy and, if necessary, discuss the hazards of feeding birds with those involved so that it will discontinue. Birds that are in the habit of obtaining food from a site will be very reluctant to leave, even if they are harassed. Reduce Wildlife Hazards during Planning Stages Plans for new structures, facilities and landscaping or renovation of existing buildings and landscaping should be reviewed by the wildlife coordinator and wildlife hazard biologist so that input can be provided. The wildlife coordinator and wildlife hazard biologist should be involved in land use planning and mitigation efforts to help minimize potential wildlife hazards. Continued Wildlife Monitoring and Surveys Wildlife abundance and use patterns are affected by a host of variables that are rarely the same in consecutive years. Because major changes are expected, though the creation of additional wildlife habitat and increased water availability, changes in wildlife patterns and movements, as well as species diversity and abundance, are likely to occur. Continued monitoring of wildlife in the area is essential, since changing the habitat may decrease habitat preference for one species but may increase the attractiveness to another species.

VIII. WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT COT should continue conducting the necessary wildlife control projects to minimize wildlife hazards. Wildlife management activities are directed at individual animals or populations. Whenever wildlife population management is employed, a number of factors must be considered. Federal and State permits must authorize the activity, including the exact species and method(s) of take. Socio-cultural concerns regarding humane treatment of animals should be considered. When lethal control is warranted, animal death should be accomplished as quickly and painlessly as possible. Integration of lethal and non-lethal methods should be directed at maximizing hazard reduction with an appropriate balance of effective methods. Use of firearms, toxicants, and traps is an essential part of operational wildlife hazard management. Personnel involved in these activities must be motivated and effective, and must conduct themselves in a safe and

31 ATTACHMENT B

responsible manner. Personnel should not be reluctant to employ these wildlife management techniques, since hesitation may result in costly damaging strikes and loss of lives. With appropriate permits, operational wildlife management work may be conducted by RSRP-TR personnel or WS. Wildlife Services conducted pigeon management at RSRP-TR from August 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009 to reduce pigeon population around RSRP-TR. The wildlife hazard biologist along with the wildlife coordinator planned and implemented several control projects. Pigeons roosting and loafing in structures (i.e., bridges) were targeted for control, a total of 80 pigeons were removed around RSRP-TR. Pigeons may present health and safety hazards or become a nuisance and their roosting and nesting activity on buildings and bridges should be monitored. Feral pigeons and their droppings are vectors for several infectious diseases such as psittacosis and histoplasmosis. The control of pigeons from RSRP-TR should continue in cooperation with the wildlife coordinator. Shooting with a pellet gun has been an effective way to reduce pigeons from a particular area. Pellet guns, when properly used, are a safe, specific and humane way to euthanize pigeons. No state or federal permits are needed to take pigeons and all applicable laws are followed. Representatives from the dove guild were the most identified and recorded species struck at PHX. Doves and pigeons together continue to represent 33% of all identified wildlife strikes (24% doves, 9% pigeons) in the PHX database since 1990. The correlation between the large populations at both these sites is significant. Habitat preference for these types of birds include open habitat. Their food preference and breeding tendencies allow for highly populated groupings of these birds plentiful in the PHX and RSRP-TR area. This guild should be actively managed by RSRP-TR via landscape manipulation and direct management practices to reduce wildlife hazards in this area. Blackbirds present a serious threat to air safety at PHX and merit control measures. Although not as large as many other species considered detrimental to air safety (i.e., waterfowl, wading birds, raptors), blackbirds are a concern because of their flocking behavior, overall abundance, and dense body structure, all of which increases their potential to damage an aircraft. Blackbirds represented 2% of the known strikes at PHX between April 28, 1990 and March 31, 2006. Flocking birds such as doves, pigeons and blackbirds (three of the top four most recorded, known species struck at PHX), are readily attracted to individuals or flocks of birds already present, resulting in increasing numbers of birds. To prevent this decoying effect, the practice of immediate and consistent management of these birds should be conducted. Since birds quickly become acclimated to any one stimulus, a variety of management methods should be employed. The control of blackbirds at RSRP-TR should begin in cooperation with the wildlife coordinator. Trapping with blackbird traps is an effective way to reduce blackbirds from a particular area. Traps when properly used are a safe and effective way to remove blackbirds. Blackbirds, although migratory, are classified under a Federal depredation order and can be taken without federal permits when concentrated in such numbers and manner as to constitute a health hazard or other nuisance. However, a State permit is required to take these birds within RSRP-TR.

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Ideas for control of the more common species are available by request from WS. Species to monitor to determine when control is necessary are feral dogs, feral cats, coyotes, rodents, rabbits and birds. Relocation of certain species (i.e., raptors) may be permitted if they become a serious hazard, and would only be accomplished with Federal and State permits that specifically authorize this activity. Relocation of common species such as gulls or vultures is not recommended, nor is it typically permitted by Federal and State agencies due to disease transmission concerns and the fact that relocated damaging species usually cause damage at the release site.

IX. SUMMARY As expected, observations during the course of the survey revealed that different groups of wildlife, or species within a group, preferred certain areas to others. Because different habitat types were located within the area of the survey, groups of wildlife were attracted to specific areas. For instance, Pelicaniformes were most often observed at Stations 2 and 7. Columbids and blackbirds were wer observed at all stations (Table 1). However, representatives from the raptors, gallenaceous birds, shorebirds, songbirds, wading birds and pelicaniformes groups were observed at all 9 sites. Doves and blackbirds were the most prevalent bird species observed at RSRP-TR during the four quarters. Both pigeons and blackbirds are considered hazardous to aviation safety due to their flocking tendency and dense body structure. The large population at and around RSRP-TR makes the potential of a strike hazard increase. WS is concerned with the present population and any population increase of these potentially hazardous bird species. Although RSRP-TR has been actively managing pigeons through WS, management should continue to utilize management for other hazardous species. Adding habitat (i.e., food, water or shelter) will attract additional wildlife to the PHX area thereby increasing the potential for an aircraft/wildlife strike. WS is concerned with any habitat addition such as large, dense, and/or fruiting landscaping, water sources, and prey items (i.e., fish into TTL or in the east Salt Riverbed overflow) which will attract wildlife of all types. Raptors utilize tall structures to perch when hunting for food. Members from the waterfowl, pelicaniformes, wading birds and shorebirds utilize the lake and available water pooling in the riverbed for drinking and loafing opportunities. The water areas also serve as cooling for wildlife in the warmer months. Fish availability in TTL and in the east Salt Riverbed overflow have been observed attracting raptors such as osprey, turkey vultures, and bald eagles, on rare occasions. The area east of TTL is still a concern of WS due to increased habitat discharged waste water has created in the area. This area has formed a moderate sized wetland and is a major wildlife attractant to cormorants. In Table 1, 1358 Pelicaniformes were observed at Station 7. This station also had the highest number of birds observed during the survey period and included a myriad of avian species including shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors, blackbirds, Columbids, and wading birds. WS continues to recommend the reduction of standing water in this area by pumping more water around the lake. WS feel that it is important that RSRP-TR develop a WHMP that identifies the cooperator’s roles and responsibilities for implementing the recommendations outlined in the Annual Report

33 ATTACHMENT B

and WHA. Included in the WHMP is a protocol for monitoring and responding to potentially hazardous wildlife situations. The City of Tempe is not required by the FAA to complete a WHMP, so the responsibility of development, approval, and implementation of a WHMP remains with the City of Tempe. WS again suggests coordinating with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport personnel to develop one WHMP which covers both properties. Stakeholder involvement in the management program should be encouraged. To comply with the FAA Airport Certification Manual requirements contained in Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 139, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is required to complete a WHMP to cover airport property. New programs should be examined cautiously, but every effort should be made to improve wildlife hazard management at PHX to ensure that all wildlife hazards are managed through efficient and effective means to enhance the safety of aviation.

34 ATTACHMENT B

Appendix A Bird Guilds Raptors Raptors are predatory birds and scavengers that possess hooked beaks and talons to capture and feed on prey. Several factors typical of airports are attractive to raptors. These include; open grasslands, adequate prey base, and regularly dispersed perch locations. Predominant prey items include small mammals (e.g., squirrels, mice, and voles) and smaller birds (e.g., finches, larks, pigeons, and sparrows). Raptors are commonly solitary individuals, or in mated pairs. This group includes eagles, falcons, hawks, owls, and vultures. Raptors range in size from as small as the 8-inch long American kestrel or 9-inch burrowing owl to as large a 36-inch long (head to tail) golden eagle. Most species have characteristic hunting styles such as soaring (e.g., vultures, eagles, and hawks), low-flying (e.g., harriers), ambush (e.g., Coopers’ hawks), hovering (e.g., American kestrel), and watching from perches (e.g., hawks and owls). Raptors represent a significant hazard to aircraft because they are typically large in size and their hunting and flying behaviors predispose them to collisions with aircraft. There were 3510 reported strikes involving raptors between 1990 and 2005, resulting in over $23.7 million in damages to civil aircraft in the United States (Cleary et al. 2005). Raptors are also the third most commonly reported guild causing bird strikes. Raptors are protected as migratory birds, and eagles, specifically, are protected under their own Act (Bald and Golden Eagle Act of 1940) and require an additional permit to harass or take. Blackbirds Blackbirds are small to medium-sized songbirds with heavy bills. For the purposes of this report, blackbirds include all blackbirds, grackles, and starlings. This guild is considered hazardous to aviation because they commonly form large flocks and have dense bodies for their size. Blackbirds and starlings were responsible for over $3.3 million in damages to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2003 (Cleary et al. 2004). Blackbirds (rusty, yellow-headed, Brewer’s, and red-winged) can be taken without a Federal permit when they are “found committing or about to commit depredations upon ornamental or shade trees, agricultural crops, livestock, or wildlife, or when concentrated in such numbers and manner as to constitute a health hazard or other nuisance...” Because starlings are a non-native species they do not fall under the protection of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and can be taken at any time without a permit. Columbids Columbids include the various doves and pigeons that are abundant throughout Arizona. They are powerful fliers with robust bodies, small heads, and short beaks. Mourning doves typically fly close to the ground near cover as they travel between feeding and roosting areas. Although doves are primarily granivorous, they will occasionally consume protein-rich animal material such as insect larvae. Although not as large as many other species considered detrimental to air safety (e.g., waterfowl or raptors), doves are a concern because of their loose flocking behavior, overall abundance, and dense body structure, all of which increases their potential to damage an aircraft. They also damage property such as buildings and airplanes with their droppings, which 35 ATTACHMENT B

are corrosive to painted and metal surfaces. There were 1,761 reported dove strikes to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Costs associated with damage from these strikes exceeded $3.7 million. Feral pigeons (rock doves) tend to fly at higher altitudes, descending to their destinations in a rapid circling pattern. They are primarily granivorous, but are known for readily accepting handouts from humans. Pigeons present many of the same hazards as doves but are more common pests around buildings and other structures. Pigeons (and their droppings) are vectors for several infectious diseases (McLean 1994) such as psittacosis and histoplasmosis. Every effort should be made to exclude pigeons from structures and all employees, tenants, and patrons should be educated about the hazards associated with feeding pigeons and other wildlife at RSRP-TR. There were 1204 reported pigeon strikes to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Costs associated with damage from these strikes exceeded $4.8 million. Pigeons are consistently the second most common struck species at PHX. Feral pigeons are not regulated by Federal or State laws and can be taken at any time. Doves however, are migratory game birds and are regulated by Federal and State regulations. Permits are required for lethal control actions. Gallinaceous birds Gallinaceous birds include upland game birds such as pheasant, quail, and turkeys. For the purpose of this report this guild also includes a member of the Cuckoo family, the greater roadrunner. Gallinaceous birds, although fully capable of flight, tend to forage and travel by walking on the ground. Gambel’s quail eat seeds, forbs, grass leaves, fruit, nuts, roots and tubers. They also eat invertebrates, such as insects. Their nests are scrapes on the ground lined with vegetation, usually in dense vegetation with thick overhead cover. The greater roadrunner is omnivorous, eating insects, scorpions, lizards, and snakes. Their nests consist of loose sticks in the dense foliage of bushes or trees. Gambel’s quail are considered upland game birds and a federal depredation permit and a state permit are needed if they are to be managed within RSRPTR. Greater roadrunners are protected as non-game birds and a federal depredation permit and a state permit are needed to be obtained if they are to be managed within RSRP-PR. Regulating agencies should be consulted prior to implementing any management action that may affect Gambel’s quail and roadrunners. There were 9 quail strikes and zero roadrunner strikes reported to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). There were no costs associated with damage from these strikes. Pelicaniformes Pelicans and cormorants are large bodied birds with webbed feet, short legs, long necks, and large bills with throat pouches. Pelicans and cormorants feed on fish. They are gregarious, often forming flocks of varying sizes. Pelicans and cormorants were responsible for 79 strikes resulting in over $2.2 million in damages to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Pelicans and cormorants are protected as migratory game birds by Federal and State laws and a Federal depredation permit is necessary if they are to be removed. Additional protection is afforded to the California brown pelican which is federally listed as an endangered species. Regulating agencies (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Arizona Game and Fish Department) should be consulted prior to implementing any control activities that may affect them

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Shorebirds This guild consists of ibis, plovers, cranes, stilts, avocets, and sandpipers. These birds are often found along shorelines, in irrigated agricultural fields and near standing water, foraging and wading into the water. Shorebirds feed on a variety of animals including invertebrates, frogs, and fish. Shorebirds were responsible for 1,439 strikes resulting in over $2.8 million in damages to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Songbirds This guild consists of small to medium-sized perching birds such as sparrows, warblers, hummingbirds, larks, woodpeckers, flickers, flycatchers, shrikes, vireos, and pipits. They tend to be associated with shrubs, trees and dense foliage. Larks and pipits however, are found in open spaces such as grasslands and along runways. Songbirds were responsible for 1,977 strikes resulting in over $97,000 dollars in damages to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Swallow-type Birds Swallows and swifts are slender aerialists with long, pointed wings. Many species colonize, and will build mud nests under eaves and bridges, whereas, the other swallows nest in banks, trees, and cavities of rocks. Nests are typically reused yearly. Swallow type birds were responsible for 1,097 strikes resulting in over $40, 000 dollars in damages to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Wading Birds Wading birds are typically tall birds with long legs, neck and bill for stalking food in shallow water. Their diet typically includes aquatic vertebrates such as small fish, frogs or crayfish. This guild includes herons, bitterns, and egrets. Herons and egrets will roost and nest in trees or bushes, usually in fairly dense colonies. One such roost can be found in the Tempe Drain located in the City of Phoenix just east of the I-202 overpass. Approximately 40-50 egrets roost in these trees each night. Due to their large size, wading birds can easily damage or down an aircraft. Wading birds were responsible for 649 strikes resulting in over $8.2 million in damages to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Wading birds are protected as migratory game birds by Federal and State laws and a Federal depredation permit is necessary if wading birds are to be removed. Waterfowl Waterfowl are aquatic birds with webbed feet, flattened bills, narrow pointed wings, and short legs. For the purposes of this report, this guild includes all ducks, geese, coots, and grebes. Ducks are further divided into divers and dabblers (surface feeding ducks). Due to their large size, waterfowl can easily damage or down an aircraft. The hazard is exasperated by their propensity to form flocks, possibly resulting in multiple engine ingestions and subsequent failure. The potential for damage by waterfowl was most tragically illustrated in September 1995 when an Air Force jet crashed in Alaska after striking a flock of Canada geese on takeoff, killing all 24 crew members. Waterfowl were responsible for 2,613 strikes resulting in over $79.8 million in damages to civil aircraft in the United States from 1990-2005 (Cleary et al. 2005). Waterfowl are protected as migratory game birds by Federal and State laws, but most can

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be hunted during fall and winter months. A Federal depredation permit is necessary if waterfowl are to be removed out of season or in excess of the legal bag limit during hunting season.

Appendix B Wildlife Species List of Maricopa County THE WILDLIFE OF MARICOPA COUNTY The following list is of the wildlife found in Maricopa County, Arizona, with the exception of accidental bird species (less than five recorded sightings). Many of these species can be found within the area around the Tempe area and possibly present hazards to air traffic at Phoenix Sky Harbor. Wildlife management personnel should become familiar with the species found on this list and how to identify them. Monitoring wildlife activity and keeping an updated checklist of observed species is important for identification of potential hazards. Wildlife observed August 1, 2008 thru July 31, 2009 at Tempe Town Lake.

WILDLIFE OF MARICOPA COUNTY1 BIRDS SPECIES Pacific Loon Common Loon Pied-billed Grebe Horned Grebe Eared Grebe Western Grebe Clark’s Grebe American White Pelican Brown Pelican Double-crested Cormorant Olivaceous Cormorant Magnificent Frigatebird American Bittern Least Bittern Great Blue Heron Great Egret Snowy Egret Little Blue Heron Cattle Egret Green-backed Heron Black-crowned Night Heron White-faced Ibis Roseate Spoonbill Wood Stork Fulvous Whistling-duck Black-bellied Whistlingduck Tundra Swan Greater White-fronted Goose Snow Goose Ross’ Goose Canada Goose

SCIENTIFIC NAME

POP

STA

HAB

Gavia pacifica Gavia immer Podilymbus podiceps Podiceps auritus Podiceps nigricollis Aechmophorus occidentalis Aechmophorus clarkia Pelecanus erythrorhynchos Pelecanus occidentalis Phalacrocorax auritus

R U C R A F U R R F

W VW Y W Y Y VW Y Y Y

W W W W W W W W W W

Phalacrocorax olivaceus Fregata magnificens Botaurus lentiginosus Ixobrychus exillis Ardea herodias Casmerodius albus Egretta thula Egretta caerulea Bubulcus ibis Butorides striatus Nycticorax nycticorax

R R R R C F F R U F F

Y S VW VS Y Y Y S Y Y Y

W W AW W AFW AFW AFW AFW AFW AW FW

Plegadis chihi Ajaia ajaja Mycteria Americana Dendrocygna bicolor Dendrocygna autumnalis

F R R R C

Y VS S VS Y

AW AW AW W W

Cygnus columbianus Anser albifrons

R R

W VW

W W

Chen caerulescens Chen rossii Branta Canadensis

U R C

VW VW W

W W WU

38 ATTACHMENT B

T&E/ SoSC

TTL

PHX Strike

X

X

C

X X

WC WC X X X X X X

X

X

Wood Duck Green-winged Teal Mallard Northern Pintail Blue-winged Teal Cinnamon Teal Northern Shoveler Gadwall Eurasian Wigeon

SPECIES American Wigeon Canvasback Redhead Ring-necked Duck Greater Scaup Lesser Scaup Oldsquaw Surf Scoter Common Goldeneye Bufflehead Hooded Merganser Common Merganser Red-breasted Merganser Ruddy Duck Domestic Duck Black Vulture Turkey Vulture Osprey White-tailed Kite Mississippi Kite Bald Eagle Northern Harrier Sharp-shinned Hawk Cooper’s Hawk Northern Goshawk Common Black-hawk Harris’ Hawk Red-shouldered Hawk Swainson’s Hawk Zone-tailed Hawk Red-tailed Hawk Ferruginous Hawk Rough-legged Hawk Golden Eagle American Kestrel Merlin Prairie Falcon Peregrine Falcon Wild Turkey Gambel’s Quail Clapper Rail Virginia Rail Sora Common Moorhen American Coot

Aix sponsa Anas crecca Anas platyrhynchos Anas acuta Anas discors Anas cyanoptera Anas clypeata Anas strepera Anas Penelope

SCIENTIFIC NAME

U C C C F C C C R

VW VW VW VW Y V VW VW VW

FW W AWU AW W W W AW W

POP

STA

HAB

C U F C R F R R U F U C U C C R C F U R U C F F R U C R F U C F R R C R U U R C R F F F C

VW VW VW VW W VW W V W VW VW W VW VW Y Y VS Y V S Y VW VW VW VW VS Y W VS VS Y VW W Y Y VW VW VW Y Y Y VW VW Y Y

W W W W W W W W W W FW W W W U DFG ADFG W A FW FW ADGW DFGW DFGW F FW DWU F ADG DFW ADFG AG AG FW ADGW ADGW AGU AGU F ADG W W W W WU

Anas Americana Aythya valisineria Aythya Americana Aythya collaris Aythya marila Aythya affinis Clangula hyemalis Melanitta perspicillata Bucephala clangula Bucephala albeola Lophodytes cucullatus Mergus merganser Mergus serrator Oxyura jamaicensis Anas domesticus ssp. Coragyps atratus Cathartes aura Pandion haliaetus Elanus caeruleus Ictinia mississippiensis Haliaeetus leucocephalus Circus cyaneus Accipiter striatus Accipiter cooperii Accipiter gentiles Buteogallus anthracinus Parabuteo unicinctus Buteo lineatus Buteo swainsoni Buteo albonotatus Buteo jamaicensis Buteo regalis Buteo lagopus Aquila chrysaetos Falco sparverius Falco columbarius Falco mexicanus Falco peregrinus Meleagris gallopavo Callipepla gambelii Rallus longirostris Rallus limicola Porzana Carolina Gallinula chloropus Fulica Americana

39 ATTACHMENT B

X X X X

T&E

TTL

PHX Strike

X

X X X

T/WC

X X

X

X

WC X E

X

X

Sandhill Crane Black-bellied Plover Lesser Golden-plover Snowy Plover Semipalmated Plover Killdeer Mountain Plover Black-necked Stilt American Avocet

SPECIES Greater Yellowlegs Lesser Yellowlegs Solitary Sandpiper Spotted Sandpiper Willet Whimbrel Long-billed Curlew Marbled Godwit Ruddy Turnstone Red Knot Sanderling Semipalmated Sandpiper Western Sandpiper Least Sandpiper Baird’s Sandpiper Pectoral Sandpiper Dunlin Stilt Sandpiper Short-billed Dowitcher Long-billed Dowitcher Common Snipe Wilson’s Phalarope Red-necked Phalarope Red Phalarope Franklin’s Gull Bonaparte’s Gull Ring-billed Gull California Gull Herring Gull Sabine’s Gull Caspian Tern Common Tern Forster’s Tern Black Tern Rock Dove Band-tailed Pigeon White-winged Dove Mourning Dove Inca Dove Common Ground-dove Ruddy Ground-dove Yellow-billed Cuckoo Greater Roadrunner

Grus Canadensis Pluviais squatarola Pluvialis dominica Charadrius alexandrinus Charadrius semipalmatus Charadrius vociferous Charadrius montanus Himantopus mexicanus Recurvirostra Americana

R U R U F C R C F

SCIENTIFIC NAME

VW V V VS V Y VW Y Y

AW W W W W AGUW AGW AW AW

POP

STA

HAB

Tringa melanoleuca Tringa flavipes Tringa solitaria Actitis macularia Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Numenius phaeopus Numenius americanus Limosa fedoa Arenaria interpres Calidris canutus Calidris alba Calidris pusilla

F F U C U R F U R R U U

Y VS V W V S VS V V V V V

AW AW W W AW W AW AW W W W W

Calidris mauri Calidris minutilla Calidris bairdii Calidris melanotos Calidris alpine Calidris himantopus Limnodromus griseus Limnodromus scolopaceus Gallinago gallinago Phalaropus tricolor Phalaropus lobatus Phalaropus fulicaria Larus pipixcan Larus Philadelphia Larus delawarensis Larus californicus Larus argentatus Xema sabini Sterna caspia Sterna hirundo Sterna forsteri Chlidonias niger Columba livia Columba fasciata Zenaida asiatica Zenaida macroura Columbina inca Columbina passerine Columbina talpacoti Coccyzus americanus Geococcyx californianus

C A F F U U U C C C F R U U F U R R U U F U A U C C F F R U C

V VW V V VW V V VW VW VS V V VS S Y Y W V VS V VS V Y VS S Y Y VS VW S Y

W W W W W W W W AW W W W W W W W W W W W W W AU F D AU AGU AG W WF ADGF

40 ATTACHMENT B

X PT X

T&E

TTL

PHX Strike

X

C

X

X

X X X

X

Barn Owl Flammulated Owl Western Screech-owl Great Horned Owl Northern Pygmy-owl Elf Owl Burrowing Owl Spotted Owl Long-eared Owl Short-eared Owl Northern Saw-whet Owl

SPECIES Lesser Nighthawk Common Poorwill Whip-poor-will Vaux’s Swift White-throated Swift Broad-billed Hummingbird Black-chinned Hummingbird Anna’s Hummingbird Costa’s Hummingbird Broad-tailed Hummingbird Rufous Hummingbird Ruby-throated Hummingbird Belted Kingfisher Lewis’ Woodpecker Acorn Woodpecker Gila Woodpecker Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Red-naped Sapsucker Red-breasted Sapsucker Williamson’s Sapsucker Ladder-backed Woodpecker Hairy Woodpecker Northern Flicker Olive-sided Flycatcher Greater Pewee Western Wood-pewee Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Hammond’s Flycatcher Dusky Flycatcher Gray Flycatcher Western Flycatcher Black Phoebe Eastern Phoebe Say’s Phoebe Vermillion Flycatcher Ash-throated Flycatcher Brown-crested Flycatcher Cassin’s Kingbird

Tyto alba Otus flammeolus Otus kennicottii Bubo virginianus Glaucidium gnoma Micrathene whitneyi Athene cunicularia Strix occidentalis Asio otus Asio flammeus Aegolius acadicus

U U C C U F U R R U R

Y VS Y Y Y VS Y Y Y W Y

AU F DFU DFGU F DF ADG F DF AG F

POP

STA

HAB

Chordeiles acutipennis Phalaenoptilus nuttallii Caprimulgus vociferus Chaetura vauxi Aeronautes saxatalis Cynanths latirostris Archilochus alexandri

C F R U F R C

VS VS VS V VW Y VS

ADG DF F DFGW AGUW UW UW

Calypte anna Calypte costae Selasphorus platycercus Selasphorus rufus Archilochus colubris

C F F F R

Y VW S VS A

GUW DF F UW F

Ceryle alcyon Melanerpes lewis Melanerpes formicivorus Melanerpes uropygialis Sphyrapicus varius Sphyrapicus nuchalis Sphyrapicus rubber Sphyrapicus thyroideus Picoides scalaris

F U U C R F R R F

VW VW VW Y VW VW VW VW Y

W AGUW F DU DF DF DF DF DW

Picoides villosus Colaptes auratus Contopus borealis Contopus pertinax Contopus sordidulus Empidonax traillii extimus

U C U R C U

Y Y V VW VS V

F DFW DF F FUW DFW

Empidonax hammondii Empidonax oberholseri Empidonax wrightii Empidonax difficilis Sayornis nigricans Sayornis phoebe Sayornis saya Pyrocephalus rubinus Myiarchus cinerascens Myiarchus tyrannulus Tyrannus vociferans

F F F C C R C F C C F

V V VW VS Y VW Y Y S S VS

UW UW DFW FGW UW UW GUW AW DFW DUW FW

SCIENTIFIC NAME

41 ATTACHMENT B

T&E

TTL

X

X

E

X

PHX Strike

Western Kingbird Horned Lark Purple Martin Tree Swallow Violet-green Swallow Northern Rough-winged Swallow Bank Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Steller’s Jay Western Scrub-jay Gray-breasted Jay American Crow Common Raven Mountain Chickadee Bridled Titmouse Plain Titmouse Verdin Bushtit

SPECIES Red-breasted Nuthatch White-breasted Nuthatch Pygmy Nuthatch Brown Creeper Cactus Wren Rock Wren Canyon Wren Bewick’s Wren House Wren Winter Wren Marsh Wren Golden-crowned Kinglet Ruby-crowned Kinglet Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Black-tailed Gnatcatcher Western Bluebird Mountain Bluebird Townsend’s Solitaire Swainson’s Thrush Hermit Thrush Rufous-backed Robin American Robin Northern Mockingbird Sage Thrasher Brown Thrasher Bendire’s Thrasher Curve-billed Thrasher Crissal Thrasher Le Conte’s Thrasher American Pipit Sprague’s Pipit Cedar Waxwing Phainopepla Loggerhead Shrike

Tyrannus verticalis Eremophila alpestris Progne subis Tachycineta bicolor Tachycineta thalassina Stelgidopteryx serripennis

C C R C F C

VS Y VS V VS VS

DFW ADG FG FW FW FW

Riparia riparia Hirundo pyrrhonota Hirundo rustica Cyanocitta stelleri Aphelocoma coerulescens Aphelocoma ultramarina Corvus brachyrhynchos Corvus corax Parus gambeli Parus wollweberi Parus inornatus Auriparus flaviceps Psaltriparus minimus

F C C F F U R C F F U C F

V VS V Y Y V VW Y Y Y Y Y Y

FW FUW AFW F F F AUW F F FW F DF FW

POP

STA

HAB

U F U U C

Y Y Y Y Y

F F F F DU

C F C F R F R C F F A U F U F R A C U R F C U U C R A C C

Y Y Y VW VW VW VW W FS Y VW VW VW V VW VW VW Y VW VW Y Y Y Y VW VW VW VW Y

DF DF FW F DF FW DF DFW FW DW AFGW AG F FU FU WU FGU DF DF WU ADG DFU DFW D AGW A WU DW DFGW

SCIENTIFIC NAME Sitta canadensis Sitta carolinensis Sitta pygmaea Certhia americana Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus Salpinctes obsoletus Catherpes mexicanus Thryomanes bewickii Troglodytes aedon Troglodytes troglodytes Cistothorus palustris Tegulus satrapa Regulus calendula polioptila caerulea Polioptila melanura Sialia mexicana Sialia currucoides Myadestes townsendi Catharus ustulatus Catharus guttatus Turdus rufopalliatus Turdus migratorius Mimus polyglottos Oreoscoptes montanus Toxostoma rufum Toxostoma bendirei Toxostoma curvirostre Toxostoma crissale Toxostoma lecontei Anthus rubescens Anthus spragueii Bombycilla cedrorum Phainopepla nitens Lanius ludovicianus

42 ATTACHMENT B

X X

X

X

T&E

TTL

X

X X

X

PHX Strike

European Starling Bell’s Vireo Gray Vireo Solitary Vireo Hutton’s Vireo Warbling Vireo Tennessee Warbler Orange-crowned Warbler Nashville Warbler Virginia’s Warbler Lucy’s Warbler Northern Parula Yellow Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Gray Warbler Townsend’s Warbler Hermit Warbler Grace’s Warbler Palm Warbler

SPECIES Black-and-white Warbler American Redstart Ovenbird Northern Waterthrush Macgillivray’s Warbler Common Yellowthroat Wilson’s Warbler Red-faced Warbler Painted Redstart Yellow-breasted Chat Olive Warbler Hepatic Tanager Summer Tanager Western Tanager Northern Cardinal Pyrrhuloxia Rose-breated Grosbeak Black-headed Grosbeak Blue Grosbeak Lazuli Bunting Indigo Bunting Varied Bunting Dickcissel Green-tailed Towhee Spotted Towhee Brown Towhee Abert’s Towhee Cassin’s Sparrow Rufous-crowned Sparrow Chipping Sparrow Brewer’s Sparrow Black-chinned Sparrow Vesper Sparrow Lark Sparrow

Sturnus vulgaris Vireo bellii Vireo vicinior Vireo solitarius plumbeus Vireo huttoni Vireo gilvus Vermivora peregrine Vermivora celata Vermivora ruficapilla Vermivora virginiae Vermivora luciae Parula Americana Dendroica petechia Dendroica pensylvanica Dendroica coronata Dendroica nigrescens

A C F F U C R C F F C R C R A C

Y S S VW Y V V VW V S S W VS W VW VS

ADUW UW F F FW DF DF UW UW F DFW UW UW UW UW FUW

Dendroica townsendi Dendroica occidentalis Dendroica graciae Dendroica palmarum

F U F R

V V S VW

UW FUW F UW

POP

STA

HAB

U U R U F C C U F F U F C C C U R C F C R R R F F C A R F F C F F F

VW VW VW V V VS V V VS S VS VS S VS Y Y VW VS S V S S V VW Y Y Y S Y VW VW VS VW VW

UW UW UW UW UW UW FUW F F FW F F UW F FW DF DFU F FW DUW AW F DF DFUW FUW DF UW W GF FW ADU F AG DFG

SCIENTIFIC NAME Mniotilta varia Setophaga ruticilla Seiurus aurocapillus Seiurus noveboracensis Oporornis tolmiei Geothlypis trichas Wilsonia pusilla Cardellina rubrifrons Myioborus pictus Icteria virens Peucedramus taeniatus Piranga flava Piranga rubra Piranga ludoviciana Cardinalis cardinalis Cardinalis sinuatus Pheucticus ludovicianus Pheucticus melanocephalus Guiraca caerulea Passerina amoena Passerina cyanea Passerina versicolor Spiza americana Pipilo chlorurus Pipilo erythrophthalmus Pipilo fuscus Pipilo aberti Aimophila cassinii Aimophila ruficeps Spizella passerina Spizella breweri Spizella atrogularis Pooecetes gramineus Chondestes grammacus

43 ATTACHMENT B

X

T&E

TTL

X

PHX Strike

Black-throated Sparrow Sage Sparrow Lark Bunting Savannah Sparrow Fox Sparrow Song Sparrow Lincoln’s Sparrow Swamp Sparrow White-throated Sparrow Golden-crowned Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Harris’ Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Chestnut-collared Longspur Red-winged Blackbird Eastern Meadowlark Western Meadowlark Yellow-headed Blackbird Brewer’s Blackbird Great-tailed Grackle

SPECIES

Amphispiza bilineata Amphispiza belli Calamospiza melanocorys Passerculus sandwichensis Passerella iliaca Melospiza melodia Melospiza lincolnii Melospiza georgiana Zonotrichia albicollis Zonotrichia atricapilla Zonotrichia leucophrys Zonotrichia querula Junco hyemalis Calcarius ornatus

C F C F R C F U U R A R C U

Y W VW VW VW Y VW W VW W VW W VW VW

D D ADG ADG FW FW FW W UW FUW FUW FUW DF G

Agelaius phoeniceus Sturnella magna Sturnella neglecta Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus Euphagus cyanocephalus Quiscalus mexicanus

C U F C A C

Y W Y W W Y

AW ADFG ADFG AW AW AUW

POP

ST A

HAB

SCIENTIFIC NAME

Bronzed Cowbird Brown-headed Cowbird Orchard Oriole Hooded Oriole Northern Oriole Scott’s Oriole Purple Finch Cassin’s Finch House Finch Red Crossbill Pine Siskin Lesser Goldfinch Lawrence’s Goldfinch American Goldfinch Evening Grosbeak

Molothrus aeneus Molothrus ater Icterus spurious Icterus cucullatus Icterus galbula Icterus parisorum Carpodacus purpureus Carpodacus cassinii Carpodacus cassinii Loxia curvirostra Carduelis pinus Carduelis psaltria Carduelis lawrencei Carduelis tristis Coccothraustes vespertinus

F C R C F U R U A U U C U U R

VS Y W VS VS VS VW VW Y VW VW Y VW VW VW

AUW AUW FW UW FW F FUW F ADUW FUW F AFW AFW AFW F

House Sparrow Horned Lark

Passer domesticus Eremophilia alpestris

A A

Y Y

AU GAU

Gray Shrew California Leaf-nosed Bat Cave Myotis Southern Yellow Bat Fringed Myotis California Myotis Yuma Myotis Western Small-footed Myotis Western Pipistrelle Western Red Bat Big Brown Bat Hoary Bat Spotted Bat Townsend’s Big-eared Bat

Notiosorex crawfordi Myotis velifer Lasiurus ega Myotis thysanodes Myotis californicus Myotis yumanensis Myotis ciliolabrum

U R F U F F F U

Y Y YH Y S S YH S

DF D D DUW T DFW DFGW FW

Pipistrellus Hesperus Lasiurus blossevillii Eptesicus fuscus Lasiurus cinereus Euderma maculata Plecotus townsendii

F R F F R U

S S S S YH YH

DFGW FW DFW F DFW DFGW

X

T&E

44 ATTACHMENT B

X

X

X

TTL

X

X

MAMMALS Macrotus californicus

X

WC

WC

PHX Strike

Pocketed Free-tailed Bat Western Mastiff Bat Pallid Bat Big Free-tailed Bat Mexican Free-tailed Bat Raccoon Coati Ringtail River Otter Badger Spotted Skunk Striped Skunk Hooded Skunk Hognose Skunk Coyote Kit Fox Gray Fox Mountain Lion Bobcat Rock Squirrel Round-tailed Ground Squirrel

SPECIES Yuma Antelope Squirrel Cliff Chipmunk Valley Pocket Gopher Arizona Pocket Mouse Desert Pocket Mouse Rock Pocket Mouse Bailey Pocket Mouse Desert Kangaroo Rat Ord Kangaroo Rat Merriam Kangaroo Rat Beaver Western Harvest Mouse Cactus Mouse Deer Mouse Brush Mouse Southern Grasshopper Mouse Whitethroat Woodrat Desert Woodrat Hispid Cotton Rat Muskrat House Mouse Porcupine Antelope Jackrabbit Blacktail Jackrabbit Eastern Cottontail Desert Cottontail Javelina (Peccary) Whitetail Deer Mule Deer Pronghorn (Antelope) Bighorn Sheep Norway Rat

Nyctinomops femorosaccus Eumops perotis Antrozous pallidus Nyctinomops macrotis Tadarida brasiliensis Procyon lotor Nasua narica Bassariscus astutus Lutra canadensis Taxidea taxus Spilogale putorius Mephitis mephitis Mephitis macroura Conepatus leuconotus Canis latrans Vulpes macrotis Urocyon cinereoargenteus Felis concolor Lynx rufus Citellus variegatus Citellus tereticaudus

F F F F F F U U U U F C U U A U C U U C C

Y Y YH VS VS Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y YH Y

D DFGW DF DFW D FUW F FW FW DG FG FG FG F DFGU D F F F DF D

POP

STA

HAB

Ammospermophilus harrisi Eutamias dorsalis Thomomys bottae Perognathus amplus Perognathus penicillatus Perognathus intermedius Perognathus baileyi Dipodomys deserti Dipodomys ordi Dipodomys merriami Castor canadensis Reithrodontomys megalotis Peromyscus eremicus Peromyscus maniculatus Peromyscus boylei Onychomys torridus

C F C F F F F F C C F F C C C F

Y Y Y Y YH Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

D F DG D D D D D D D FW DGW D DFGU F DG

Neotoma albigula Neotoma lepida Sigmodon hispidus Ondatra zibethica Mus musculus Erethizon dorsatum Lepus alleni Lepus californicus Sylvilagus floridanus Sylvilagus auduboni Pecari angulatus Odocoileus virginianus Odocoileus hemionus Antilocapra americana Ovis canadensis Rattus norvegicus

F F F F C U U C U C F C C U U U

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

D D DG FW AU F DFG DG DG DG D FW DFG G F U

SCIENTIFIC NAME

45 ATTACHMENT B

WC

WC

X

T&E

E/WC

TTL

PHX Strike

Roof Rat Feral Cat Feral Dog

Rattus rattus Felis domesticus Canis familiaris

R C C

Y Y Y

AFU ALL ALL

Western Banded Gecko Mediterranean Gecko Banded Gila Monster Reticulated Gila Monster Zebratail Lizard Greater Earless Lizard Collared Lizard Desert Iguana Longnose Leopard Lizard Lesser Earless Lizard Short-horned Lizard Desert Horned Lizard Regal Horned Lizard Chuckwalla Desert Spiny Lizard Clark’s Spiny Lizard Brush Lizard Tree Lizard

Coleonyx variegatus Hemidactylus turcicus Heloderma suspectum cinctum Heloderma suspectum suspectum Callisaurus draconoides Cophosaurus texanus Crotaphytus collaris Dipsosaurus dorsalis Gambelia wislizeni Holbrookia maculata Phrynosoma douglassi Phrynosoma platyrhinos Phrynosoma solare Sauromalus obesus Sceloporus magister Sceloporus clarki Urosaurus graciosus Urosaurus ornatus

C C F F C U F U F U F C F C C C F C

YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH

DG U DG DG DG DG DG DG DG DG F DG DG D DG F DG ADGU

SPECIES

SCIENTIFIC NAME

POP

STA

HAB

Uta stansburiana Eumeces gilberti Eumeces obsoletus Cnemidophorus flagellicaudus Cnemidophorus tigris Cnemidophorus burti Xantusiidae vigilis arizonae Lichanura trivirgata Arizona elegans Chilomeniscus cinctus Chionactis occipitalis Diadophis punctatus Hypsiglena torquata Lampropeltis getula californiae Lampropeltis pyromelana

C R U F C U U R C U F R C F U

YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH

DG F F DG ADGU F D D ADGW D D FW ADG ADUW F

Masticophis bilineatus Masticophus taeniatus Masticophis flagellum Phyllorhynchus decurtatus Phyllorhynchus browni Pituophis catenifer Rhinocheilus lecontei Salvadora hexalepis Salvadora grahamiae Sonora semiannulata Tantilla hobartsmithi

C F C C F C C C R C U

YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH

DG F DG DG F ADUW ADW DW F ADUW ADUW

Thamnophis cyrtopsis Thamnophis elegans vagrans Thamnophis marcianus Trimorphodon biscutatus Crotalus atrox

C U C C C

YH YH YH YH YH

FW FW ADGW DW DG

REPTILES

Side-blotched Lizard Gilbert’s Skink Great Plains Skink Gila Spotted Whiptail Western Whiptail Giant Spotted Whiptail Arizona Night Lizard Rosy Boa Glossy Snake Banded Sand Snake Western Shovelnose Snake Ringneck Snake Night Snake California Kingsnake Sonoran Moutain Kingsnake Sonoran Whipsnake Striped Whipsnake Coachwhip Spotted Leafnose Snake Saddle Leafnose Snake Gopher Snake Longnose Snake Western Patchnose Snake Mountain Patchnose Snake Ground Snake Southwestern Blackhead Snake Blackneck Garter Snake Wandering Garter Snake Checkered Garter Snake Lyre Snake Western Diamondback

46 ATTACHMENT B

T&E

TTL

PHX Strike

Rattlesnake Sidewinder Speckled Rattlesnake Blacktail Rattlesnake Mojave Rattlesnake Tiger Rattlesnake Arizona Black Rattlesnake Western Coral Snake Western Blind Snake Sonoran Mud Turtle Desert Tortoise

Crotalus cerastes Crotalus mitchelli Crotalus molossus Crotalus scutulatus Crotalus molossus Crotalus viridis cerberus Micruroides euryxanthus Leptotyphlops humilis Kinosternon sonoriense Gopherus agassizi

C C C C F F R R U U

YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH YH

DG D DFW DG D F DG DGU DW DW

Spiny Softshell Red-eared Slider Snapping Turtle

Apalone spinifera Pseudemys scripta elegans Chelydra serpentina

U C R

YH Y YH

W A UW

Arizona Tiger Salamander

Ambystoma tigrinum

R

YH

DU

Colorado River Toad Great Plains Toad Arizona Toad Red-spotted Toad Sonoran Green Toad Woodhouse’s Toad Canyon Treefrog

Bufo alvarius Bufo cognatus Bufo microscaphus Bufo punctatus Bufo retiformis Bufo woodhousii Hyla arenicolor

C C U C R C C

YH YH YH YH YH YH YH

ADGW ADGW AGW ADGW DG DGUW DW

POP

STA

HAB

Scaphiopus couchi Spea multiplicata

C U

YH YH

DG DG

Xenopus laevis Pternohyla fodiens Rana catesbeiana Rana yavapaiensis Gastrophryne olivacea

R R C R R

YH YH YH YH YH

U D U W D

T(MO)/ WC

AMPHIBIANS E(SO)/ WC

SPECIES Couch’s Spadefoot Toad New Mexico Spadefoot Toad African Clawed Frog Burrowing Treefrog Bullfrog Lowland Leopard Frog Great Plains Narrowmouthed Frog POP - Population A - Abundant C - Common F - Fairly Common U - Uncommon R - Rarely Seen

SCIENTIFIC NAME

STA - Status Y - Year-long Resident W - Winter Resident V - Spring/Fall Visitor S - Summer Resident H - Hibernates/Estivates A - Accidental

T&E

TTL

PHX Strike

WC

HAB - Habitat A - Agricultural Crop Fields D - Sonoran Desert (Lower Elevations) F - Chaparral/Forests/Riparian Woods G - Grasslands/Open Areas w/ Few Trees U - Urban/Suburban Areas W - Wetlands/Marshes/Riparian Borders

Federal / State Arizona Wildlife C - Candidate E - Endangered T - Threatened

Status of Species PT - Proposed Threatened PE - Proposed Endangered WC – Wildlife of Special Concern in Arizona Checklist of Wildlife Observed at NAUSP/GMA during the Wildlife Hazard Assessment

This list was created by WS personnel using field identification guides and the assistance of the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Because this list was compiled from numerous sources, some discrepancies may occur and should be used in conjunction with other wildlife publications.

47 ATTACHMENT B