Craggy Project Checklist

Page 1 of 15

Date: 07-10-17

Common Name Scientific Name

Acorn 

woodpecker

Melanerpes 

formicivorus 4,985 acres of oak in 7th field watersheds 0 acres 0 acres

Western gray 

squirrel Sciurus griseus 4,985 acres of oak in 7th field watersheds 0 acres 0 acres

Rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss 14.6 miles* 0 miles

Steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss 9.6 miles 0 miles

Tailed frog Ascaphus truei 19.1 miles***** 0 miles

Cascades frog Rana cascade No habitat in or adjacent to project area ** 0 miles

American dipper Cynclus platensis 19.1 miles***** 0 miles

Northern water 

shrew Sorex palustris 35 miles***** 0 miles

Long-tailed vole Microtus longicaudus No habitat in or adjacent to project area *** 0 miles

Northern redlegged frog Rana aurora 0 acres

Western pond 

turtle Clemmys marmorata 0 acres

Red-breasted 

sapsucker

Sphyrapicus ruber 4,744 acres in analysis area 426 acres 0 acres

Hairy 

woodpecker

Picoides villosus 3,334 acres in analysis area 426 acres 0 acres

Hardwood Species Association

No habitat in or adjacent to project area  

No habitat in or adjacent to project area ** **

Marsh/Lake/Pond Species Association

Snag Species Association

River/Stream Species Association

Project Name: Craggy Vegetation Management Project Reviewer: Brian Thomas (fishery biologist), Sam Cuenca 

(wildlife biologist)

The Klamath National Forest identified the following six species associations and 26 species (white-headed woodpecker is listed under two different associations) as 

management indicators to assess landscape and project-level impacts to habitat conditions (Forest Plan, pages 4-30 through 4-32). Rationale for designation of these 

Management Indicator Species (MIS) is found in the EIS for the Forest Plan and in the MIS Report, Part II. Completion of this checklist certifies that all project level MIS have 

been considered for the proposed actions. 

MIS Habitat* is not in or 

adjacent to the treatment 

area** and is not affected 

by the project

Habitat* is in or adjacent to the treatment 

area** but is not directly or indirectly affected 

by the project activities (needs rationale) 

Habitat* is potentially 

affected by project 

activities (proceed to 

Part II)

Habitat removed by 

project activities 

(based on analysis in 

Part II)
Craggy Project Checklist

Page 2 of 15

White-headed 

woodpecker

Picoides albolarvatus 3,536 acres in analysis area 426 acres 0 acres

Vaux’s swift Chaetura vuaxi 3,536 acres in analysis area 426 acres 0 acres

Downy 

woodpecker

Picoides pubescens 3,334 acres in analysis area 426 acres 0 acres

Pileated 

woodpecker

Dryocopus Pileatus 3,536 acres in analysis area 426 acres 0 acres

Black-backed 

woodpecker

Picoides arcticus 202 acres in analysis area 15 acres 0 acres

Pronghorn Antilocarpa americana No habitat 0 acres

Montane vole Microtus montanus No habitat 0 acres

Loggerhead 

shrike Lanius Ludovicianus No habitat 0 acres

Swainson’s hawk Buteo swainsoni No habitat 0 acres

Sage thrasher Oreoscoptes montanus No habitat 0 acres

Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia No habitat 0 acres

Flammulated owl Otus flammeolus No eastside pine habitat 0 acres

White-headed 

woodpecker Picoides albolarvatus No eastside pine habitat 0 acres

Pinyon jay Gymnorhinus 

cyanocephalius No eastside pine habitat 0 acres

** No overwintering lake habitat present within or adjacent to project area.

* See effects analysis in Craggy Project Aquatic Resources Report for complete analysis of the effects to steelhead trout and rainbow trout habitat.

Grassland/Shrub-Steppe Species Association (BVNG)

Mature Ponderosa Pine Species Association (Eastside Pine)

*"Habitat" as defined in the Forest Plan, and supplemented by the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System (California Department of Fish and Wildlife, 

previously California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG)).

** "treatment area" is defined as the specific locations (units, roads, etc) where project activities will occur

Note: Habitat associations that are not directly or indirectly affected by project activities are not discussed in detail in Part II
Craggy Project Checklist

Page 3 of 15

*** Project area is outside of species range.

  No pond or lake habitat for either species is present within or adjacent to project area. 

** *** Effects to tailed frog, American dipper and northern water shrew habitat are the same as effects to rainbow trout and steelhead trout habitat.

See effects analysis in Craggy Project Aquatic Resources Report for complete analysis of the effects to steelhead trout and rainbow trout. 
Habitat Crosswalk

Page 4 of 15

Forest Plan MIS 

Category

Forest Plan 

Defined MIS 

Habitat

Forest Plan Defined 

Habitat Components

GIS hab_type 

knfeveg94_7

Timber Strata or Cal Veg Type 

knveveg99_2 (2006)

Acres on Forest knfeveg99_2 

(2006)

Individual Species Mature/OG conifer 

forest Large snags, stumps, logs Mature MC DF,DP,DW,JP,KP, MF,MK,MP,MU, PD,PO,PW,RD, WW size 4,5 444,276

Individual Species Mature/OG true fir 

forest Large snags, stumps, logs Mature F MH,RF,WB,WF,SA size 4, 5 160,609

Individual Species Early seral forest 

types Grasses, forbs, berries Early seral All size N,0,1,2 295,562

Individual Species Mid-seral veg types Quality forage Mid seral All size 3 466,674

Individual Species Brush/shrub Quality forage Brush BB,BM,BR,C1,CG, 

CH,CL,CM,CN,CQ,CS,CV,CW,CX,SN 178,190

Hardwood

Oak woodlands 

w/large conifers (oak 

as primary)

Diversity of oaks, large conifers, 

acorns

Oak CJ, QC, QG, QK, QT 61,168

Hardwood Mature mixed 

hardwood/conifer Mature conifers and hardwoods Mature hardwood QM,TX size 4 2,074

River/Stream River/Stream Water quality, instream woody 

debris, substrate, flows *see note below *see note below *see note below

River/Stream Riparian habitat 

w/dense cover

Canopy, grass/forb, deciduous 

veg Riparian NR, QF, QO, QR, QS, QY, TA 

combined with river/stream layer 3,234

Marsh/lake/ pond Lakes, ponds, streams Associated riparian veg, CWD Wet meadow and 

water

HJ and WA 2,306 (HJ) 3,730 (WA)

Snag Late-successional 

conifer forest Snags Mature MC See above See above

Snag Mature true fir and 

lodgepole pine Snags Mature F and mature LP See above for F, LP size 4 975 (LP) (F above)

Snag Riparian deciduous Snags N/A N/A N/A

Snag Ponderosa pine Snags Mature PP PP size 4, 5 3,585

Snag Pileated woodpecker 

specific Snags Mature conifer 

>40% cc

Same as mature MC above but >40% 

crown closure only 428,993 (subset of above)
Habitat Crosswalk

Page 5 of 15

Forest Plan MIS 

Category

Forest Plan 

Defined MIS 

Habitat

Forest Plan Defined 

Habitat Components

GIS hab_type 

knfeveg94_7

Timber Strata or Cal Veg Type 

knveveg99_2 (2006)

Acres on Forest knfeveg99_2 

(2006)

Grassland/ shrubsteppeGrasslands and shrubs 

on Butte Valley 

National Grassland 

(BVNG)

Perennial grass cover, 

sagebrush/grass mosaic

Grassland on BVNG HG, BS on BVNG 7,342

Grassland/ shrubsteppeOpen habitats near 

seasonally flooded 

wetlands and brush on 

BVNG

Perennial grass cover, 

sagebrush/grass mosaic

Grassland on BVNG BL on BVNG 1,572

Mature p.pine Mature eastside pine Mature pines and snags Mature EP EP size 4, 5 2,623

Mature p. pine Ponderosa pine and 

mixed conifer

Mature pines and snags Mature PP or mature 

MC

Mature PP and MC 3,585 (PP) (MC above)

Mature p. pine Eastside pine/juniper Mature pines and junipers Juniper WJ 17,138

Non-MIS habitat other UB, AG, BA 13,208

*Rivers/streams and fish GIS layers must be brought in separately for project analysis; they are not included in Forest MIS layer. See Klamath National Forest 

Runstreams database for habitat data and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (previous California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG)) and tribal stream 

habitat evaluations. Consider Standards and Guidelines in MA-10 of the Forest Plan for long-term protection and restoration of riparian habitat. 
Land Resource Management Plan Selection and Monitoring

Page 6 of 15

MIS Forest Plan 

Habitat

Level of 

Analysis Reasons for Selection as MIS Monitoring and/or Evaluation Objective from Forest Plan

Tool for Monitoring and/or 

Habitat Evaluation Assessment

Northern 

spotted owl

Mature and oldgrowth conifer forestForest Plan Specific habitat needs, represents 

other old-growth species, sensitive to 

habitat changes

Determine number of pairs within LSRs. Northwest Forest Plan Long Term 

Monitoring

Northern 

goshawk

Mature conifer forest Forest Plan Indicator of mature forest conditions 

on eastside and higher elevations than 

NSO

Determine occupancy of suitable habitat. 

American 

marten

Mature conifer forest Forest Plan Indicator of habitat quality, specific 

habitat needs, indicator of mature true 

fir and large logs, special interest

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan

Pacific fisher Mature conifer forest Forest Plan Indicator of habitat quality, special 

interest species

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan

Surveys in partneship with USDI-FWS

Black bear All forested types, 

early and late seral 

vegetation types

Forest Plan Associated with early and late seral 

stages and need for logs, special 

interest game species

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan

CDFW data

Black-tailed 

deer

All successional 

stages, especially 

early and middle, 

hardwoods, brush, 

pine, etc.

Forest Plan Associated with early and mid-seral 

stages, important game species

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan

CDFW data

Acorn 

woodpecker

Oak woodlands with 

associated large 

conifers

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for diversity of oak species 

and large conifers

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Western gray 

squirrel

Mature hardwood 

and mixed hardwoodconifer

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for mature hardwood and 

mixed conifer-hardwood

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Individual Species

Hardwood Species Association

River/Stream Species Association
Land Resource Management Plan Selection and Monitoring

Page 7 of 15

MIS Forest Plan 

Habitat

Level of 

Analysis Reasons for Selection as MIS Monitoring and/or Evaluation Objective from Forest Plan

Tool for Monitoring and/or 

Habitat Evaluation Assessment

Rainbow trout Rivers/streams Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for water quality, in-stream 

woody debris, bottom substrate, flows 

and channel condition

As an MIS, determine population trends 

and relationship to habitat changes 

(Implementation monitoring)

CDFW fishing effort and success 

evaluations. Use project level anlaysis 

for impacts to water quality and stram 

side vegeation. Also consider S&G in 

MA-10 for long term protection and 

restoration of stream habitat

Steelhead Rivers/streams Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for water quality, in-stream 

woody debris, bottom substrate, flows 

and channel condition

As an MIS, determine population trends 

and relationship to habitat changes 

(Implementation monitoring)

Coordinated surveys with CDFW and 

tribes. Use project level anlaysis for 

impacts to water quality and stram side 

vegeation. Also consider S&G in MA10 for long term protection and 

restoration of stream habitat

Tailed frog Perennial montane 

streams with dense 

vegetation

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for water quality, in-stream 

woody debris, bottom substrate, flows 

and channel condition

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

Use project level anlaysis for impacts to 

water quality and stram side vegeation. 

Also consider S&G in MA-10 for long 

term protection and restoration of 

stream habitat.

Cascades frog Higher elevation 

streams

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for water quality, instream 

woody debris, bottom substrate. 

flows, and grassy streamside 

vegetation

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

same as tailed frog

American 

dipper

Cold, swift, perennial 

streams

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for water quality, instream 

woody debris, bottom substrate and 

flows

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

same as tailed frog

Northern 

water shrew

Riparian w/dense 

grass-forb cover

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator of riparian vegetation 

including canopy, deciduous veg, and 

grass/forb.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

same as tailed frog
Land Resource Management Plan Selection and Monitoring

Page 8 of 15

MIS Forest Plan 

Habitat

Level of 

Analysis Reasons for Selection as MIS Monitoring and/or Evaluation Objective from Forest Plan

Tool for Monitoring and/or 

Habitat Evaluation Assessment

Long-tailed 

vole

Mesic habitats, dense 

riparian vegetation

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator of riparian vegetation 

including canopy, deciduous veg, and 

grass/forb.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

same as tailed frog

Northern redlegged frogShallow wetlands, 

ponds and streams 

with emergent 

vegetation.

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator of standing open water and 

associated vegetation, chosen for 

sensitivity to physical aquatic 

conditions and CWD.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

same as tailed frog

Western pond 

turtle

Permanent or nearly 

permanent water in a 

variety of habitats.

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator of standing open water and 

associated vegetation, chosen for 

sensitivity to physical aquatic 

conditions and CWD.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

same as tailed frog

Red-breasted 

sapsucker

Mid- to late seral 

mixed conifer and 

riparian deciduous

Forest Plan 

and Project

Indicator of snags as a habitat element 

and of other species which depend on 

sapwells for food.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Hairy 

woodpecker

Riparian deciduous 

habitats with large 

trees for cavities

Forest Plan 

and Project

Indicator of snags as a habitat element 

and of other species which depend on 

woodpeckers for cavities or as prey.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

White-headed 

woodpecker

Ponderosa pine and 

high elevation mixedconifer

Forest Plan 

and Project

Indicator of snags as a habitat element 

and for other species which depend 

on woodpeckers for cavities or as 

prey.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Marsh/Lake/Pond Species Association

Snag Species Association
Land Resource Management Plan Selection and Monitoring

Page 9 of 15

MIS Forest Plan 

Habitat

Level of 

Analysis Reasons for Selection as MIS Monitoring and/or Evaluation Objective from Forest Plan

Tool for Monitoring and/or 

Habitat Evaluation Assessment

Vaux’s swift Late-successional 

forests with large 

hollow snags

Forest Plan 

and Project

Indicator of large snags as a habitat 

element

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Downy 

woodpecker

Riparian deciduous 

habitats

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator of snags as a habitat element 

and for other species which depend 

on woodpeckers for cavities or as 

prey.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Pileated 

woodpecker

Late-successional 

coniferous forests

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator of snags as a habitat element 

and for other species which depend 

on woodpeckers for cavities or as 

prey.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Black-backed 

woodpecker

High elevation fir 

and lodgepole pine

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator of snags as a habitat element 

and for other species which depend 

on woodpeckers for cavities or as 

prey.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Pronghorn Grassland, shrubsteppe and 

agricultural lands

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for coverage of perennial 

grasses, increased mesic conditions 

and diverse sagebrush/grassland 

mosaic on the BVNG.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Montane vole Grasslands with 

relatively high plant 

moisture

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for coverage of perennial 

grasses, increased mesic conditions 

and diverse sagebrush/grassland 

mosaic on the BVNG.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Loggerhead 

shrike

Diverse shrub-steppe 

habitats

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for diverse sagebrush 

mosaic on the BVNG.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Grassland/Shrub-Steppe Species Association (Butte Valley National Grassland - BVNG)
Land Resource Management Plan Selection and Monitoring

Page 10 of 15

MIS Forest Plan 

Habitat

Level of 

Analysis Reasons for Selection as MIS Monitoring and/or Evaluation Objective from Forest Plan

Tool for Monitoring and/or 

Habitat Evaluation Assessment

Swainson’s 

hawk

Perennial grasslands 

and shrub-steppe.

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for coverage of perennial 

grasses and diverse 

sagebrush/grassland mosaic on the 

BVNG.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Sage thrasher Low, moderately 

spaced sagebrush

Forest Plan 

and Project 

Indicator for coverage of perennial 

grasses, increased mesic conditions 

and diverse sagebrush/grassland 

mosaic on the BVNG.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Burrowing 

owl

Open habitat near 

seasonally flooded 

wetlands and dense 

brush

Project level Indicator for coverage of perennial 

grasses, increased mesic conditions 

and diverse sagebrush/grassland 

mosaic on the BVNG.

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Flammulated 

owl

Mature conifer stands 

and eastside pine 

habitats

Project level Indicator for mature eastside 

Ponderosa pine habitat with large 

snags

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

White-headed 

woodpecker

Ponderosa pine and 

high elevation mixedconifer

Project level Indicator for mature eastside 

Ponderosa pine habitat with large 

snags

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Pinyon jay Eastside pine and 

pine/juniper habitats

Project level Indicator for mature cone-producing 

eastside ponderosa pine and juniper

None identified in Chapter 5 of the Forest 

Plan. Standard and Guideline 8-21 states 

landscape- and project-level impacts to 

habitat conditions will be assessed. 

GIS habitat crosswalk, and Forest Plan 

EIS Appendix I for Habitat Capability 

Models

Mature Ponderosa Pine Species Association
Species Information

Page 11 of 15

MIS Species: Forest Plan 

Defined Habitat: General Natural History Information for Project Level Analysis (citations):

Acorn woodpecker Oak woodlands with 

associated large conifers

Common, yearlong resident, communal groups of 2-16, consisting of at least 2 breeding adults and offspring. Territories 

consist of defending 1-7 (average 2) large, isolated trees for acorn storage (CWHR, 5/2002). Requires low-density stands of 

large oaks w/sparse canopy & snags. Peak breeding/nesting activity in May and June (CDFG 1990)

Western gray squirrel Mature hardwood and 

mixed hardwood-conifer

Common locally, dependent on mature oak and mixed conifer, require large trees, mast and snags. Homerange size in Sierra 

Nevada foothills varied from 1.2 to 2.5 acres (males). (CDFG April 1990)

Rainbow trout Rivers/streams Common in cool, clear, fast-flowing permanent streams and rivers w/in the Klamath River Basin. Refer to fish KNF species 

range distribution layer for steelhead trout habitat location. Rare to abundant in accessible low gradient non-permanent 

streams where suitable habitat is present. Flows necessary to provide dissolved oxygen (typically close to saturation); cool 

water temperatures (optimum 15-18 degrees C); and diverse and abundant invertebrate life is required. Coarse (1-13 cm 

diameter) gravels in riffles or pools are used for spawning and cobble and boulders for cover. Ample and complex cover from 

riparian vegetation, CWD, boulders, deep pools, or undercut banks reduces exposure to predators, high flows, and excessive 

energy expenditure. (Moyle 2002; Mehan 1991; Groot and Margolis 1991).

Steelhead Rivers/streams Habitat same as for rainbow trout, but including ability to migrate to and from estuaries and ocean habitats. Refer to fish KNF 

species range distribution layer for resident rainbow trout habitat location.

Tailed frog Perennial montane 

streams with dense 

vegetation

Considered common in suitable habitats. Occurs in permanent streams of low temperatures in conifer-dominated habitats 

including redwood, Douglas-fir, Klamath mixed conifer, ponderosa pine, and montane hardwood-conifer. Intermittent streams 

with all the other proper environmental factors are unsuitable. Occurs more frequently in mature or late-successional stands. 

Uses submerged rocks and logs in streams for cover. Tadpoles require cool streams and prefer turbulent water. Permanent 

water is critical for larvae. Individuals have been collected up to 40' from streams during moist periods, during dry periods 

usually restricted to stream bed. Normal range has a long dimension that rarely exceeds 80'. (CDFG 1988, CWHR, CDFGHCPB Website)

Cascades frog Higher elevation streams Found in water and surrounding vegetation in mountain lakes, small streams, and ponds in meadows up to timber line. Closely 

restricted to water. Occurs in both ephemeral and permanent ponds or streams, but probably cannot survive in ephemeral 

situation where at least some of the substrate does not remain saturated. Standing water is required for reproduction. Females 

prefer to lay eggs at sites with low or patchy aquatic vegetation cover (open, shallow water that is unshaded). Larvae 

voluntarily select a high water temperature (~27 degrees C), postmetamorphic life stages select temps <17 degrees C. 

Individuals bask on water covered rocks. Hibernate in mud at bottom of lakes during the winter. (CDFG 1988, CWHR, 

CDFG-HCPB Website)

Information on natural history, including habitat requirements, for MIS was compiled during preparation of the Klamath Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan) 

and the associated EIS. Supplemental information, as displayed below, was obtained from the California Wildlife Habitat Relationship System and other sources as listed in 

the Literature Cited section. 

Hardwood Species Association:

River/Stream Species Association:
Species Information

Page 12 of 15

MIS Species: Forest Plan 

Defined Habitat: General Natural History Information for Project Level Analysis (citations):

American dipper Cold, swift, perennial 

streams

Uncommon to common on clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers in montane regions. Eats aquatic insects, fish, snails and 

tadpoles. Builds a domed nest of grasses in crevice, stump, log, bank or human structure, usually w/in 3-6’ of water. Defends 

territory of up to 1050’ of stream during breeding season, year-round density of 2.1 to 4.6 per mile of stream. Peak 

reproduction activity May to July. (CDFG November 1990)

Northern water shrew Riparian w/dense grassforb coverCommon to abundant in montane riparian, nests w/in inches or feet of water, none more than 100’ from water. Homerange 

“small”, need perhaps 1 mile or more of stream for viable population (CDFG, April 1990)

Long-tailed vole Mesic habitats, dense 

riparian vegetation

Range map shows Cascade Range (eastern Siskiyou County). Common resident of herbaceous understories of many forest 

habitats. Abundant in montane riparian, wetlands, cropland, aspen, grasslands, and wet meadows. Nests in burrows in soft 

soils, or within or beneath logs, seeks cover in dense herbaceous veg. May be found several hundred meters from water. 

Homerange average .5 acres. (CDFG April 1990)

Northern red-legged 

frog

Shallow wetlands, ponds 

and streams with 

emergent vegetation.

Inhabits quiet pools of streams, marshes, and occasionally ponds usually below 3936 ft. Highly aquatic with little movement 

away from streamside habitats, prefers shorelines with extensive vegetation. Usually escapes to water. Peak breeding March 

through July. (CDFG May 1988)

Western pond turtle Permanent or nearly 

permanent water in a 

variety of habitats.

Uncommon to common in suitable aquatic habitat throughout CA. Associated with permanent or nearly permanent water in a 

wide variety of habitats. Turtles require basking sites such as logs, rocks, mats of floating veg, or open mud banks. They 

retreat under water when disturbed. Nesting occurs upland up to 1/4 mile from water in a variety of soil types. Eggs are laid 

from March to August. (CDFG May 1988)

Red-breasted 

sapsucker

Mid- to late seral mixed 

conifer and riparian 

deciduous

Uncommon to fairly common, nests in montane riparian, aspen, montane hardwood-conifer, mixed conifer and red fir, 

especially near meadows, clearings, lakes or streams. Nests and roosts in tree cavities which it excavates in snags or rotted 

trees. In Modoc Co., defense area minimum reported at 150’ around nest tree, territory up to 15 acres. Probably most 

sensitive to disturbance from early June to late July. (CDFG Nov 1990).

Hairy woodpecker Riparian deciduous 

habitats with large trees 

for cavities

Fairly common, permanent resident in mixed conifer and riparian deciduous habitats. Uses stands of large, mature trees and 

snags of sparse to intermediate density. Also - uses relatively open or patchy stands of conifers with adjacent riparian habitats 

and abundant snags. In central Ontario, breeding territory averaged 7 acres (range 6-8). Peak nesting activity late May 

through June. (CDFG Nov 1990)

White-headed 

woodpecker

Ponderosa pine and high 

elevation mixed-conifer

A common year-long resident of montane coniferous forests up to lodgepole pine and red fir habitats. Nests in open conifer 

habitats, often near edges or roads or clearings or near natural openings. Excavates cavity in large snag or stump at lease 2’ in 

diameter at nest height (6’-50’ above ground). Average territory of 15 acres reported for Blue Mts or Oregon. Peak 

reproductive activity mid-June through mid-July. (CDFG Nov 1990).

Snag Species Association:

Marsh/Lake/Pond Species Association:
Species Information

Page 13 of 15

MIS Species: Forest Plan 

Defined Habitat: General Natural History Information for Project Level Analysis (citations):

Vaux’s swift Late-successional forests 

with large hollow snags

A summer resident in N. CA. Roosts in hollow trees and snags, occasionally in chimneys and buildings; often in large flocks. 

Nests in redwood, DF and occasionally other coniferous forests. The most important requirement appears to be an 

appropriate nest-site in a large, hollow tree, esp. tall burned-out stubs. Forages over most habitats high in air, apparent 

preference for foraging over rivers and lakes. No homerange or territory data, homerange may be very large (Zeiner et al. 

1990) and territory presumably limited to nest tree. Suggested minimum snag size of 30’ tall and 20” diameter. Nesting 

season June through August. (CDFG, Nov. 1990)

Downy woodpecker Riparian deciduous 

habitats

A common, year-long resident of riparian deciduous and associated hardwood and conifer habitats. Closely associated with 

riparian softwoods. Excavates cavity in snag or dead branch 4-50’ above ground. Requires abundant snags, and tree/shrub, 

tree/herbaceous, and shrub/herbaceous ecotones. In Ontario, breeding territories of 5 and 9 acres observed. Peak nesting May 

through June. (CDFG Nov 1990)

Pileated woodpecker Late-successional 

coniferous forests

Uncommon, year-long resident of mature, montane conifer habitats with permanent water. Occupies dense (preferably >40% 

canopy), mature forest with large numbers of snags, stumps and logs. Frequents DF, WF and RF more than other conifers. 

Nest tree selection at least 20” DBH. Homerange or territory estimated (in Oregon) at 320-600 acres. Bull and Meslow, 1977, 

recommended a 100 acre nest core and a 500-1200 acre forage area with 90 snags over 20” per square mile. Peak 

reproduction early May through mid-June. (CDFG Nov. 1990)

Black-backed 

woodpecker

High elevation fir and 

lodgepole pine

Uncommon year-long resident predominantly in true fir and lodgepole pine forests. Prefers relatively large trees for foraging 

and nesting, canopy cover may range from sparse to dense. Apparently attracted to stands with wood-boring insect 

infestations, frequents areas with snags, windfalls, and burns. Present in areas some years, absent others. No data on 

homerange or territory, in Michigan foraging was observed at least .25 miles from nest. Peak nesting mid-May through early 

July. (CDFG, Nov. 1990)

Pronghorn Grassland, shrub-steppe 

and agricultural lands

Fairly common resident of NE California, found only in sagebrush, low sage, bitterbrush, grassland, PJ, riparian, and alkali 

desert scrub habitats. Prefer low, rolling topography in open grassland and sagebrush. Optimal habitat described as 40-60% 

grass, 10-30% forb, and 5-20% shrub cover. Large herds in winter (600+), smaller groups in spring/summer. Homeranges 

extremely variable, up to .5 mi in spring/summer, up to 5.8 miles in fall/winter. Summer range, dominant males hold 

territories up to 2 square miles with some water. (CDFG, April 1990).

Montane vole Grasslands with 

relatively high plant 

moisture

Found in Cascade Range (middle and eastern portion of SisQ), common to abundant in wet meadow, perennial grassland, and 

alpine dwarf-shrub habitats. Also may be common in herbaceous understory of many forest habitats, as well as sagebrush, 

bitterbrush, annual grassland and cropland (5000-12,000’ elevation). Nest of dried grasses is constructed in a burrow 

excavated in moist soil. Requires dense herbaceous growth for cover, prefers meadows or grasslands with a water source. In 

Montana, home ranges averaged about .25 acres. Reported densities range up to 220/ac, and fluctuate considerably from year 

to year. (CDFG, April 1990)

Loggerhead shrike Diverse shrub-steppe 

habitats

A common resident of lowlands and foothills throughout CA. Prefers open habitats with scattered shrubs, trees, posts, fences, 

or other perches. Uses scattered trees and shrubs for nesting and cover. Territories in Contra Costa and Kerns Counties 

averaged 18.7 acres (11-40 ac). Peak reproduction in May and June.(CDFG Nov 1990)

Grassland/shrub-steppe Species Association:
Species Information

Page 14 of 15

MIS Species: Forest Plan 

Defined Habitat: General Natural History Information for Project Level Analysis (citations):

Swainson’s hawk Perennial grasslands and 

shrub-steppe.

Uncommon breeding migrant in Klamath Basin. Breeds in stands with few trees in juniper-sage flats and riparian areas. 

Forages in adjacent grasslands or ag fields. Homeranges in Utah and Wyoming averaged 1.0 to 1.5 sq. mi. Peak nesting 

period is about April through June. (CDFG Nov 1990 and NTMB Reference Book, 1994)

Sage thrasher Low, moderately spaced 

sagebrush

A common summer visitor and breeder east of the Cascade Range, primarily in sagebrush and low sagebrush habitats. Uses 

moderately spaced shrubs for cover and nesting. Breeding territories in Idaho averaged 2.3 ac. Density in Washington was 

recorded at 5 pairs per sq. mi. Peak breeding season is May and June. (CDFG Nov 1990)

Burrowing owl Open habitat near 

seasonally flooded 

wetlands and dense 

brush

Summer resident in northeastern plateau of CA (Klamath). Uses open, dry grassland and desert habitats, and in grass, forb 

and open shrub stages of pinyon -juniper and ponderosa pine habitats. Uses rodent or other burrows for roosting and nesting 

cover. Mean homerange was 2 acres in Oakland (.1 to 4 ac). Susceptible to disturbance and soil compaction. Peak breeding 

season April through May. (CDFG Nov 1990)

Flammulated owl Mature conifer stands 

and eastside pine 

habitats

A common summer resident in a variety of coniferous habitats from ponderosa pine to red fir forests. Nests in cavity or 

woodpecker hole in aspen, oak, or pine snags and trees (secondary cavity nester). Occasionally will nest in burrow or nest 

box. Favors small openings, and edges and clearings with snags for nesting and roosting. Territory defended in May and June, 

seldom more than 900 ft diameter, varying from 4-10 acres. Most susceptible to disturbance during peak breeding season in 

June and July. (CDFG Nov 1990)

White-headed 

woodpecker

Ponderosa pine and high 

elevation mixed-conifer

See above, white-headed woodpecker under Snag Association

Pinyon jay Eastside pine and 

pine/juniper habitats

A fairly common but somewhat local resident in coniferous habitats east of the Cascade-Sierra Nevada Crest. Preferred 

nesting habitats are PJ and eastside pine. Trees of moderate size, esp. PJ afford nesting and roosting cover. Nesters most 

numerous in pinyon, ponderosa and Jeffery pine woodlands with sparse to open canopy and a well defined shrub layer. Live 

in integrated, social flocks year round and nest in colonies. Flock homerange is up to 7 miles or more. Peak egg-laying in 

probably April through June. (CDFG Nov 1990)

Literature Cited: 

Groot, C. and L. Margolis (eds.). 1991. Pacific Salmon Life Histories. UBC Press, Vancouver, BC.

California Department of Fish and Game - Habitat Conservation Planning Branch (HCPB). May 21, 2002. Website: updated as https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation.

Mature Ponderosa Pine Species Association:

California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System (CWHR). May 20, 2002. Website: Previously www.dfg.ca.gov/whdab/cwhr. California Department of Fish and Game. 

Presently (2017) California Department of Fish and Wildlife at www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR.

California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). November 1990. California's Wildlife, Volume II, Birds. CDFG, Sacramento, CA. Website above for updated information.

California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). April 1990. California's Wildlife, Volume III, Mammals. CDFG, Sacramento, CA. Website above for updated info.

California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). May 1988. California's Wildlife, Volume I, Amphibians and Reptiles. CDFG, Sacramento, CA. Website for updated info.
Species Information

Page 15 of 15

MIS Species: Forest Plan 

Defined Habitat: General Natural History Information for Project Level Analysis (citations):

Meehan, W.R. (ed.). 1991. Influences of Forest and Rangeland Management on Salmon Fisheries and Their Habitat. AFS. Bethesda, MA.

Moyle, P.B., Inland Fisheries of California, Revised and Expanded. 2002. University of California Press. Berkeley, CA.