United States Department of Agriculture

DEPAR TMENT OF AGRICULT URE

Forest 

Service

Pacific Northwest 

Research Station

General Technical Report

PNW-GTR-946

September

2016

Fish Creek Rim 

Research Natural Area: 

Guidebook Supplement 50

Reid Schuller and Ian Grinter
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 

civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and 

institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating 

based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender 

expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income 

derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior 

civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases 

apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. 

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program 

information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should 

contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and 

TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, 

program information may be made available in languages other than English. 

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination 

Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html 

and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the 

information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. 

Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, 

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, 

D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Authors

Reid Schuller is a plant ecologist, Western Stewardship Science Institute, P.O. Box 

1173, Bend, OR 97709; Ian Grinter is a botanist, Lakeview District, Bureau of 

Land Management, Lakeview, OR 97630. 

The Pacific Northwest Research Station is publishing this guidebook as part of a 

continuing series of guidebooks on federal research natural areas that began in 1972.

Cover photo: Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area, where sagebrush and 

bunchgrass predominate on shallow, rocky soils, and western juniper, mountain 

mahogany, mountain big sagebrush, and bitterbrush occupy deeper soils and 

moister microsites. Photo by Reid Schuller.
Abstract

Schuller, Reid; Grinter, Ian. 2016. Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area: guidebook supplement 50. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-946. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 25 p. 

This guidebook describes major biological and physical attributes of the 3531-ha 

(8,725-ac) Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area located within the Northern 

Basin and Range ecoregion and managed by the Bureau of Land Management, 

Lakeview District (USDI BLM 2003). 

Keywords: Research natural area, area of critical environmental concern, Basin 

and Range, Northern Great Basin, mountain mahogany, Cercocarpus ledifolius, 

mountain big sagebrush, Artemisia tridentata, bitterbrush, Purshia tridentata, 

Idaho fescue, Festuca idahoensis, Artemisia arbuscula, low sagebrush, Sandberg 

bluegrass, Poa secunda, Ceanothus velutinus, snowbrush, Prunus emarginata, 

bitter cherry, sage grouse, Centrocercus urophasianus, vegetation monitoring.
Preface

The research natural area (RNA) described in this supplement1 is administered by the 

Lakeview District, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Department of the Interior.

Fish Creek Rim RNA is part of a federal system2 of natural areas established 

for research and educational purposes.3 Of the 183 federal RNAs established in 

Oregon and Washington, 45 are described in Federal Research Natural Areas in 

Oregon and Washington: a Guidebook for Scientists and Educators (Franklin et al. 

1988). This report is a supplement to the guidebook. 

Each RNA is a site where elements4 are protected or managed for scientific 

purposes and natural processes are allowed to dominate. The objectives for establishing RNA’s are to:

• Maintain a wide spectrum of high-quality areas that represent the major 

forms of variability found in forest, shrubland, grassland, alpine, and natural situations that have scientific interest and importance that, in combination, form a national network of ecological areas for research, education, 

and maintenance of biological diversity.

• Preserve and maintain genetic diversity, including threatened, endangered, 

and sensitive species.

• Protect against human-caused environmental disruptions.

• Serve as reference areas for the study of natural ecological processes, 

including disturbance.

• Provide onsite and extension educational activities.

1 Supplement No. 43 to Franklin, J.F.; Hall, F.C.; Dyrness, C.T.; Maser, C. 1972. Federal research 

natural areas in Oregon and Washington: a guidebook for scientists and educators. Portland, OR: 

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Forest and Range Experiment 

Station. 498 p.

2 Six federal agencies cooperate in this program in the Pacific Northwest: U.S. Department of the 

Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Park Service; U.S. 

Department of Agriculture, Forest Service; U.S. Department of Energy; and U.S. Department of 

Defense. In addition, the federal agencies cooperate with state agencies and private organizations 

in Oregon and Washington in the Pacific Northwest Interagency Natural Area Committee. Taken 

from Wilson, T.M.; Schuller, R.; Holmes, R.; Pavola, C.; Fimbel, R.A.; McCain, C.N.; Gamon, 

J.G.; Speaks, P.; Seevers, J.I.; DeMeo, T.E.; Gibbons, S. 2009. Interagency strategy for the Pacific 

Northwest Natural Areas Network. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-798. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 33 p.

3 See Wilson et al. (2009) for a more complete discussion of rationale for establishment of research 

natural areas.

4 Elements are the basic units to be represented in a natural area system. An element may be an 

ecosystem, community, habitat, or organism. Taken from Dyrness, C.T.; Franklin, J.F.; Maser, 

C.; Cook, S.A.; Hall, J.D.; Faxon, G. 1975. Research natural area needs in the Pacific Northwest: 

a contribution to land-use planning. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-38. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Forest and Range Experiment Station. 231 p.
• Serve as baseline areas for measuring long-term ecological changes.

• Serve as control areas for comparing results from manipulative research.

• Monitor effects of resource management techniques and practices.

The guiding principle in managing RNAs is to maintain natural ecological 

processes or conditions for which the site is designated. Activities that impair scientific or educational values are not permitted within RNAs. Management practices 

necessary to maintain or restore ecosystems may be allowed.

Federal RNAs provide a unique system of publicly owned and protected 

examples of relatively unmodified ecosystems where scientists can conduct research 

with minimal interference and reasonable assurance that investments in long-term 

studies will not be lost to logging, land development, or similar activities. Research 

projects, educational visits, and collection of specimens from the RNA all require 

prior approval. There may be limitations on research or educational activities.

A scientist or educator wishing to use the RNA is obligated to:

• Obtain permission from the appropriate administering agency before using 

the area (see footnote 2). Those wishing to visit or use Fish Creek Rim RNA 

for scientific or educational purposes should contact the Lakeview BLM 

District Manager in advance and provide information about research or educational objectives, sampling procedures, and other prospective activities.

• Abide by the administering agency’s regulations governing use, including specific limitations on the type of research, sampling methods, and other procedures.

• Inform the administering agency on progress of the research, published 

results, and disposition of collected materials.

The purpose of this approval process is to:

• Ensure that the ecological integrity and scientific and educational values of 

the RNA are not compromised.

• Provide information to scientists about other research occurring on the 

RNA so that potential collaborations may be fostered and conflicts avoided. 

• Maintain records of research activities and research results to benefit the 

land management agency, other agencies, and future researchers. 

Appropriate uses of RNAs are determined by the administering agency. 

Destructive analysis of vegetation is generally not allowed, nor are studies requiring extensive substrate modification such as extensive soil excavation. Collection 

of plant and animal specimens is generally restricted to voucher specimens or 

approved research activities. Under no circumstances may collecting significantly 

reduce species populations. Collecting must also be carried out in accordance with 

all other federal and state agency regulations. 
Contents

1 Introduction

1 Access and Accommodations

3 Environment 

5 Vegetation

14 Fauna

14 Research History

14 Maps 

15 Acknowledgments

15 English Equivalents

16 References

18 Appendix 1: Plants

22 Appendix 2: Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds, and Mammals 

Expected to Use Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area
1

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Introduction

The 3531-ha (8,725-ac) Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area (RNA) occupies the 

upper elevations of Lynch’s Rim, and the escarpment that faces east toward Warner 

Valley in Lake County, Oregon. The RNA was established in 2003 because the area 

supported high-quality examples of four vegetation communities representative of 

the Northern Basin and Range ecoregion identified for inclusion into a regionwide 

natural areas system by the Oregon Natural Areas plan (ONHAC 2010; PNNAN 

2014; USDI BLM 2000, 2001, 2003; Vander Schaaf 1992):

• Big sagebrush–bitterbrush/Idaho fescue (Artemisia tridentata–Purshia 

tridentata/Festuca idahoensis).1

• Snowbrush and bitter cherry (Ceanothus velutinus and Prunus emarginata) 

shrub complex.2

• Low sagebrush/Idaho fescue (Artemisia arbuscula/Festuca idahoensis). 

• Mountain mahogany/mountain big sagebrush (Cercocarpus ledifolius/

Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana) community with bitterbrush 

(Purshia tridentata).

Access and Accommodations

From Lakeview, Oregon, proceed 6.4 km (4 mi) north on U.S. Highway 395 to the 

intersection with Oregon Highway 140. Turn right (east) onto Highway 140 and 

continue approximately 25.8 km (16 mi) to the “Plush Cutoff Road” (County Road 

3-13; paved). Turn left (north) toward Plush and continue for 19.2 km (11.9 mi) to 

an intersection with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Road 7105-00 (primitive 

dirt road). Turn right (southeast) and proceed 7.9 km (4.9 mi) to the northwestern boundary of the RNA. At this point, the road gradually deteriorates into a 

four-wheel-drive track that can be navigated with vehicles with high clearances. 

Designated open-access routes provide seasonal access to most of the RNA (fig. 1). 

However, no off-road or cross-country motorized travel is allowed within the RNA. 

Permission to use the area for research purposes should be obtained from the BLM, 

Lakeview District office in Lakeview, Oregon, prior to visiting the site. Maps and 

additional directions to the area are available at this office. Lodging is available in 

Lakeview, Oregon.

1 A list of scientific and common names for vascular plants known to occur within the 

RNA appears in appendix 1. 

2 This shrub complex occurs as a minor vegetation type throughout the RNA. It has not 

been mapped separately but occupies small areas within the western juniper woodlands, 

the mountain big sagebrush-bitterbrush/Idaho fescue plant community, and the mountain 

mahogany-mountain big sagebrush-bitterbrush plant community.
2

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Figure 1—Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area location and access. BLM = Bureau of Land Management.

Plush

Adel

To Lakeview, 20 miles

Plush Cutoff

Road

Plush - Adel

Road

7105-A0

7105-00

7142-00

7105-00

7105-B

0

0 1 2 4 6 8

Kilometers

Town

State highway

County road

Bureau of Land 

Management road

Fish Creek Rim 

Research Natural Area

Hart Mt Road

Oregon

Hogback Road
3

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Environment 

The RNA occupies a transitional region between the Basin and Range and Columbia Plateau physiographic provinces. The Basin and Range physiographic province 

extends from Lake County southward into northern Nevada and northeastern California. It is characterized by basins that have closed or partially closed drainages 

separated by north- to south-trending fault-block ranges and escarpments that have 

been tilted (Conrad et al. 1988, Franklin and Dyrness 1988, USDA NRCS 2014).

Extensive flood basalts and associated air-fall tuffs and sedimentary rocks of 

Miocene age underlie most of the region. At least three separate periods of volcanism are recorded. The oldest deposits consist of a sequence of nearly flat-lying 

andesite flows about 23 million years before the present. An overlying sequence 

of basalt flows about 229 m (750 ft) thick correlates with the Steens Basalt about 

15 million years in age. The youngest volcanic rocks in the study area comprise a 

sequence of basalt flows and flow breccia that underlies the broad plateau at the top 

of Lynch’s Rim (Conrad et al. 1988).

The steeply inclined eastern escarpment drops 739 m (2,425 ft) to the floor 

of Warner Valley over a horizontal distance of 3.2 km (2 mi). In contrast, gently 

inclined slopes tilting westward predominate over the majority of the RNA. Numerous intermittent stream channels have incised northwest-oriented shallow ravines, 

which carry snowmelt and rainfall during spring and summer months. Elevations 

within Fish Creek Rim RNA range from 1380 m (4,528 ft) along the eastern boundary to 2103 m (6,900 ft) along the summit ridge in the south-central part of the 

RNA (fig. 2). Soil series present are predominantly classified as Carryback, Deseed, 

Erakatak, and Old Camp. Soils are residuum and colluvium derived from welded 

tuff and basalt (Kienzle 1999; USDA NRCS 1999, 2014). 

Climate is characterized by cold winters and hot summers with features of 

both maritime and continental climates. Temperatures are milder than in the Great 

Plains as the Rocky Mountains buffer this region from the full effects of continental 

air masses. Cyclonic storms still affect the area, although reduced precipitation 

results from the rain shadow effect of the Cascade Mountains (Franklin and Dyrness 1988). Temperature and precipitation data collected at nearby Hart Mountain 

(WRCC 2014) are summarized in table 1. Summers are dry, and the July through 

September period receives only 12 percent of the average annual total precipitation 

of 294 mm (11.58 in) (WRCC 2014). Upper elevations within the RNA receive a 

higher proportion of winter precipitation as snowfall.
4

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Figure 2—Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area boundary, topography, and riparian areas. 

0 0.5 1 2 3 4

Kilometers

150-meter contour

30-meter contour

Intermittent streams

Township boundary

Fish Creek Rim 

Research Natural Area
5

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Vegetation

The RNA supports associations of big sagebrush–bitterbrush/Idaho fescue 

(Artemisia tridentata–Purshia tridentata/Festuca idahoensis); snowbrush and 

bitter cherry (Ceanothus velutinus and Prunus emarginata) shrub complex; low 

sagebrush/Idaho fescue (Artemisia arbuscula/Festuca idahoensis); and mountain 

mahogany/mountain big sagebrush (Cercocarpus ledifolius/Artemisia tridentata 

ssp. vaseyana) community with bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata). Plant community 

distribution within the RNA is shown in figure 3. In addition to relatively homogeneous communities, much of the vegetation within the RNA occupies ecotones 

or forms tight vegetation mosaics. Figures 4, 5, and 6 illustrate typical vegetation 

structure and composition within the big sagebrush–bitterbrush/Idaho fescue 

plant association (fig. 4) along the ecotone between the big sagebrush–bitterbrush/

Idaho fescue plant association and the mountain mahogany communities (fig. 

5), as well as within the low sagebrush/Idaho fescue plant association (fig. 6). In 

many areas within the RNA, however, the plant community types intermingle, 

or form vegetation mosaics. The upper plateau and rimrock areas, in particular, 

reflect this variation in stands codominated by mountain mahogany, where mountain big sagebrush, bitterbrush, bitter cherry, and snowbrush all may codominate 

(USDI BLM 2014). Table 2 shows shrub, herb, and grass composition across a 

mountain mahogany and mountain big sagebrush-bitterbrush ecotone (Schuller 

and Grinter 2014). 

Plant composition and structure within the low sagebrush/Idaho fescue plant 

association appears in table 3. Low sagebrush is the principal shrub. Minor amounts 

of Nestotus stenophyllus (narrowleaf mock goldenweed) occur scattered in some 

areas. Conspicuous grasses include Idaho fescue, Sandberg bluegrass, and squirreltail (Elymus elymoides). Vegetation transects within the low sagebrush community 

Table 1—Temperaturea and precipitation estimates, 5/1/1939 to 

3/31/2013, for Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area (RNA), Oregon.

Average minimum January temperature -7.6 °C (18.4 °F)

Average maximum January temperature 3.9 °C (39.0 °F)

Average minimum July temperature 6.7 °C (44.0 °F)

Average maximum July temperature 27.4 °C (81.4 °F)

Average annual precipitation1 294.1 mm (11.58 in)

Average July–September precipitation 36.6 mm (1.44 in)

Average annual snow fall 1252.2 mm (49.3 in)

Average January snow depth 25.4 mm (1 in)

a

 Temperature and precipitation data taken from Hart Mountain Refuge, Oregon, located 40 

km (25 mi) northeast of the RNA (WRCC 2014).
6

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Figure 3—Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area vegetation map.

0 0.5 1 2 3 4

Kilometers

Quaking aspen

Mountain big sagebrush and bitterbrush

Curl-leaf mountain mahogany

Western juniper

Low sagebrush

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area
7

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Figure 4—Mountain big sagebrush and bitterbrush dominate shrub layer in the foreground. An 

ecotone grades into a mountain mahogany thicket in the background. Western juniper and quaking 

aspen occur sporadically within the ecotone.

Reid Schuller Reid Schuller

Figure 5—A close-up of ecotone between mountain big sagebrush and bitterbrush and mountain 

mahogany vegetation communities.
8

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

revealed a diverse mix of native bunchgrasses with the dominant bunchgrass differing from Idaho fescue in some areas to Sandberg bluegrass in others (Schuller and 

Grinter 2014). Showy herbaceous species include serrate balsamroot (Balsamorhiza 

serrata), spiny phlox (Phlox hoodii), largehead clover (Trifolium macrocephalum), 

and nineleaf biscuitroot (Lomatium triternatum).

Western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) occurs throughout the RNA. It occupies the entire range of environments within the RNA. It occurs as dense stands 

within ravines and along the eastern escarpment, in open woodlands or scattered 

tree groups throughout the area, or as individual trees within the low sagebrush 

plant communities. Understory vegetation varies from sparse beneath closed juniper 

canopies to more vigorous and moderately species-rich in more open areas.

Small groves of white fir (Abies concolor) are scattered at higher elevations 

and in mesic microhabitats at mid-elevations within the RNA. White fir is generally uncommon on BLM-administered lands in the northern Great Basin. This is 

uncommon in the Great Basin, and is usually restricted to high elevations and moist 

microhabitats. Ice-age relict stands of white fir are also present on Hart Mountain 

about 8 km (5 mi) to the east of the RNA (USDI BLM 2014). In mesic settings where 

soil is moist, quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) sometimes codominates (fig. 7).

Reid Schuller

Figure 6—Low sagebrush and Idaho fescue dominate shallow soils with exposed rock on tableland. 

Sandberg bluegrass is a codominant, although it is less conspicuous.
9

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Table 2—Plant association, shrub and forb frequency and cover within three permanent transects in Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area, Oregon (continued)

Plant association 

CELE3 - PUTR2 - ARTRV

Transect 587 Transect 588 Transect 589

Scientific name Code a b

Transect 

587

Transect 

587

Transect 

588

Transect 

588

Transect 

589

Transect 

589

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Percent - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Shrubs:

Cercodarpus ledifolius CELE3 56 44 62 59 24 18Purshia tridentata PUTR2 32 13 36 13 46 24Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana ARTRV 40 14 22 7 14 5Linanthus pungens LIPU11 4 1 2 + 10 3Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus CHVI8 4 + 2 +Prunus virginiana var. melanocarpa PRVIM 6 1

Herbs, grasses, and subshrubs:

Festuca idahoensis FEID 53 8 65 19 24 6Elymus elymoides ELEL5 12 + 12 + 41 4Poa secunda POSE 29 6 47 3 82 6Antennaria rosea ANRO2 12 4 24 2 12 1Crepis sp. CREPI 29 2 12 1Collinsia parviflora COPA3 18 + 24 + 41 1Achillea millefolium ACMI2 6 + 6 + 6 +Lupinus argenteus LUAR3 12 1Antennaria dimorpha ANDI2 12 1Melica stricta MEST 12 +
10

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946 Table 2—Plant association, shrub and forb frequency and cover within three permanent transects in Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area, Oregon (continued) Plant association CELE3 - PUTR2 - ARTRV Transect 587 Transect 588 Transect 589

Scientific name Code a b

Transect 

587

Transect 

587

Transect 

588

Transect 

588

Transect 

589

Transect 

589

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Percent - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Viola sp. VIOLA 6 +Packera cana PACA15 29 1 6 1Lomatium nevadense LONE 12 + 6 +Microsteris gracilis MIGR 6 +Trifolium gymnocarpon TRGY 6 +Calochortus macrocarpus CAMA5 6 +Stellaria longipes STLO2 18 1Nothocalais troximoides NOTR2 18 +Hieracium scouleri HISC2 6 +Poa pratensis POPR 6 +

a Plant associations are named based on a combination of the dominant life form plus the characteristic or dominant plant species in the various plant layers (trees, shrubs, and herbs). Plant association acronyms are a shorthand form for communicating the plant association name. Each acronym is made up of the first two letters of the genus name of the dominant or characteristic species within a layer, and combined with the first two letters of the specific epithet of the species (e.g., Abies concolor is shortened to ABCO). In a few instances, a number is added to the four digit acronym in order to avoid duplication and confusion with taxa having the same unnumbered acronym (e.g., “PUTR2” for Purshia tridentata). Plant associations are generally defined by the dominant or characteristic species which occupies, or has the biological potential to occupy, the uppermost vegetation layer. In forested plant associations, this is the tree layer. In shrubdominated areas with no or few trees, the shrub layer is used. Additional names are used for understory layers when they contain dominant, characteristic, or diagnostic species (e.g., white firShasta red fir/pipsissewa–Columbian windflower (Abies concolor–Abies magnifica var. shastensis /Chimaphila umbellata ssp. occidentalis–Anemone deltoidea. Life form layers are separated 

by a “/”. Codominants within a layer are separated by a “–“. b CELE3— Cercocarpus ledifolius, PUTR2— Purshia tridentata, ARTRV— Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, + = trace (<0.5 percent foliar cover), - = not recorded.c Frequency is expressed as percentage of relative frequency (e.g., rooted occurrence of a species in 3 of 20 microplots is expressed as 15 percent), cover is expressed as percentage estimate of foliar cover as observed from a vertical projection. Zero values are not included.
11

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Table 3—Plant association, understory percent frequency and cover within six permanent transects in Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area, Oregon (continued)

Plant association

ARAR8 / 

POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

ARAR8 / 

POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

Scientific name Code 

Transect 

590

Transect 

591

Transect 

592

Transect 

593

Transect 

594

Transect 

595

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Percent frequency / Percent cover - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Shrubs:

Purshia tridentata PUTR2 4 / 3Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula ARAR8 28 / 9 64 / 21 12 / 3 44 / 13 40 / 9 52 / 16Nestotus stenophyllus NEST5 18 / 1 50 / 7 10 / 1 12 / 2Eriogonum microthecum var. laxiflorum ERMIL2 8 / 1

Herbs, grasses, and sedges:

Festuca idahoensis FEID 18 / 1 53 / 10 65 / 14 29 / 2 47 / 5Elymus elymoides ELEL5 24 / 1 29 / 1 35 / 1 18 / 1 24 / 1 29 / 1Poa secunda POSE 65 / 7 88 / 9 100 / 13 100 / 7 82 / 10 94 / 8Danthonia unispicata DAUN 6 / 1 6 / + 6 / 1 6 / +Phlox hoodii PHHO 24 / 1 35 / 2 12 / + 35 / 3 18 / 1 35 / 1Lomatium triternatum LOTR2 59 / 3 71 / 2 47 / 2 6 / + 6 / + 6 / +Balsamorhiza serrata BASE2 29 / 1 41 / 1 18 / 2 6 / 1Trifolium macrocephalum TRMA3 29 / 2 6 / + 65 / 3 12 / +Trifolium sp. TRIFO 47 / 10 41 / 7 6 / 1Antennaria dimorpha ANDI2 18 / + 18 / 2 6 / +Nothocalais troximoides NOTR2 6 / + 18 / + 6 / +
12

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946 Table 3—Plant association, understory percent frequency and cover within six permanent transects in Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area, Oregon (continued) Plant association ARAR8 / 

POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

ARAR8 / 

POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

ARAR8 / 

FEID-POSE

Scientific name Code 

Transect 

590

Transect 

591

Transect 

592

Transect 

593

Transect 

594

Transect 

595

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Percent frequency / Percent cover - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Collinsia parviflora COPA3 6 / + 18 / +Packera cana PACA15 12 / +Lithophragma glabrum LIGL2 6 / + 6 / +Allium platycaule ALPL2 6 / +Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides PHCH 6 / 1Koeleria macrantha KOMA 6 / + 6 / + 6 / +Eremogone congesta ERCO24 12 / 1 12 / +Castilleja pilosa CAPI3 12 / 1 6 / +Antennaria rosea ANRO2 12 / +Erigeron bloomeri ERBL 6 / + 6 / + 6 / +Carex rossii CARO5 6 / +Leptosiphon harknessii LEHA11 6 / +Agoseris heterophylla AGHE2 6 / +Bromus hordeoides BRHO2 6 / +Lomatium nevadense LONE 6 / +Microsteris gracilis MIGR 6 / +Gayophytum sp. GAYOP 6 / + 6 / +Draba verna DRVE2 6 / +
13

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Figure 7—A white fir stand within Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area. White fir is reproducing 

in the ground layer. Quaking aspen and western juniper also are present in the tree layer.

Reid Schuller
14

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Fauna

Bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) have been observed in the area, and extensive 

habitat is available within the RNA along the eastern escarpment. This rimrock 

area also provides habitat for birds of prey nesting. Sage grouse (Centrocercus 

urophasianus) is documented to occur within the area and habitat occurs in and 

around the RNA (USDI BLM 2014). The shrublands on the western slope provide 

browse and cover for mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus ssp. hemionus), pronghorn 

(Antilocapra americana), and elk (Cervus elaphus).

Amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals known or expected to occur within 

the RNA are listed in appendix 2. These lists have been derived from published 

literature (Csuti et al. 1997), using species distribution, life history characteristics, 

and availability of habitat within the RNA as criteria for inclusion on the list.

Research History

Long-term vegetation monitoring transects were established in 2014 (Schuller and 

Grinter 2014). Three transects were laid out along the ecotone between stands of 

mountain mahogany and the big sagebrush–bitterbrush/Idaho fescue plant community. Six transects were established within the low sagebrush/bunchgrass vegetation 

mosaic, where Idaho fescue and Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda) alternate as 

stand dominants.

Conrad et al. (1988) evaluated 4827 ha (11,929 ac) of Fish Creek Rim Wilderness Study Area for known and potential mineral resources. The large majority of 

the RNA is within this boundary.

Maps 

Maps applicable to Fish Creek Rim RNA: Topographic—Priday Reservoir, 7.5 

minute; 1:24,000 scale, 1967 (photo revised 1980); BLM Lakeview Resource 

Area—Southeast Quarter recreation map, 1:126720 (1/2 inch = 1 mile), 1996.
15

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Acknowledgments

The following people merit recognition for their contributions. Phil D’Amo, Lakeview District geologist, and Steven Flock, Vale District geologist, provided helpful 

comments on the geology and general environment. John Owens, Lakeview District 

wildlife biologist, reviewed and improved the list of animals in appendix 2. We also 

thank the three manuscript reviewers: Todd Wilson, wildlife biologist and research 

natural area coordinator, U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station; 

Grace Haskins, invasive species coordinator, Lakeview District, BLM; and Paul 

Whitman, planning and environmental coordinator, Lakeview District, BLM.

Photographs and figures are provided by the authors. The project is funded 

through the BLM Oregon State Office, and is administratively supported by the 

USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station.

English Equivalents

When you know: Multiply by: To find: 

Millimeter (mm) 0.0394 Inch 

Centimeter (cm) 0.394 Inch (in) 

Meter (m) 3.28 Feet (ft) 

Kilometer (km) 0.62 Mile (mi) 

Square meter (m2) 10.76 Square feet (ft2) 

Hectare (ha) 2.47 Acres (ac) 

Degrees Fahrenheit (°F – 32)/1.8 Degrees Celsius (°C)
16

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

References

Conrad, J.E.; King, H.D.; Plouff, D.; Diggles, M.F.; Sawatzky, D.L.; Benjamin, 

D.A. 1988. Mineral resources of the Fish Creek Rim Wilderness study 

area, Lake County, Oregon. Open-file report 88-442. Menlo Park, CA: U.S. 

Department of the Interior, Geological Survey. 14 p.

Cook, T.; Sundberg, S., eds. 2014. Oregon vascular plant checklist. http://www.

oregonflora.org/checklist.php. Version 1.2. (15 August 2014).

Csuti, B.; Kimerling, A.J.; O’Neil, T.A.; Shaughnessy, M.M.; Gaines, E.P.; 

Huso, M.M.P. 1997. Atlas of Oregon wildlife. Corvallis, OR: Oregon State 

University Press. 427 p. + map.

Flora of North America. 1993+. Partial nomenclature of vascular plants, ferns, 

and fern allies within Oregon. http://www.efloras.org/flora_page.aspx?flora_id=1. 

(13 August 2014).

Franklin, J.F.; Dyrness, C.T. 1988. 2nd ed. Natural vegetation of Oregon and 

Washington. Corvallis, OR: Oregon State University Press. 452 p.

Kienzle, R.J. 1999. Soil survey of Lake County, Oregon, southern part (OR 

636). [Place of publication unknown] U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural 

Resources Conservation Service. 508 p.

Oregon Natural Heritage Advisory Council [ONHAC]. 2010. Oregon Natural 

Areas Plan. Portland, OR: Oregon Biodiversity Information Center, Institute for 

Natural Resources, OR: Portland State University. 198 p.

Pacific Northwest Natural Areas Network [PNNAN]. 2014. Fish Creek Research 

Natural Area. http://www.fsl.orst.edu/rna/sites/Fish_Creek_Rim.html. (26 

September 2014).

Schuller, R.; Grinter, I. 2014. Monitoring data. On file with: Bureau of Land 

Management, Lakeview District, 1301 S “G” Street, Lakeview, OR 97630.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service 

[USDA NRCS]. 1999. Soil survey of Lake County, Oregon, southern part. http://

www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MANUSCRIPTS/oregon/OR636/0/or636_text.

pdf. (20 September 2014).
17

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service 

[USDA NRCS]. 2014. Soil maps from Lake County, Oregon. 508 p. http://

websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx. (9 September 2014).

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management [USDI BLM]. 

2000. Areas of Critical Environmental Concern nomination analysis report 

for the Lakeview Resource Area resource management plan. Lakeview, OR: 

Lakeview District. 58 p. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Lakeview 

District [USDI BLM]. 2001. Draft Lakeview resource management plan and 

environmental impact statement. Appendix I. Areas of Critical Environmental 

Concern. Lakeview, OR: Lakeview District.

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management [USDI BLM]. 

2003. Lakeview resource management plan and record of decision. On file with: 

Bureau of Land Management, Lakeview District, 1301 South G Street, Lakeview, 

OR 97630. 124 p. + appendices. http://www.blm.gov/or/districts/lakeview/plans/

files/Lakeview_RMP_Text_Appendices.pdf. (20 September 2014).

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Lakeview 

District [USDI BLM]. 2014. Unpublished field notes. On file with: Bureau of Land 

Management, Lakeview District, 1301 South G Street Lakeview, Oregon 97630.

Vander Schaaf, D. 1992. Natural Area inventory for the Lakeview Resource Area, 

Lakeview District, Bureau of Land Management. Unpublished final report. On 

file with: Bureau of Land Management, Lakeview District, 1301 South G Street, 

Lakeview, OR 97630.

Western Regional Climate Center [WRCC]. 2014. Monthly climate summary for 

Hart Mountain Refuge, Oregon 5/ 1/1939 to 3/31/2013. http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/

cgi-bin/cliMAIN.pl?or3692. (7 September 2014).

Wilson, T.M.; Schuller, R.; Holmes, R.; Pavola, C.; Fimbel, R.A.; McCain, 

C.N.; Gamon, J.G.; Speaks, P.; Seevers, J.I.; DeMeo, T.E.; Gibbons, S. 

2009. Interagency strategy for the Pacific Northwest Natural Areas Network. 

Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-798. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, 

Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 33 p.
18

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Appendix 1: Plantsa b

Scientific name Common name

Coniferous trees:

Abies concolor (Gord. & Glend.) Lindl. ex Hildebr. White fir

Juniperus occidentalis Hook. Western juniper

Pinus ponderosa Laws. & C. Laws. Ponderosa pine

Deciduous trees:

Populus tremuloides Michx. Quaking aspen

Tall shrubs 2 to 8 m (6.6 to 26.2 ft) tall:

Cercocarpus ledifolius Nutt. var. ledifolius Curl-leaf mountain mahogany

Peraphyllum ramosissimum Nutt. Wild crab apple

Prunus emarginata (Dougl. ex Hook.) D. Dietr. Bitter cherry

Prunus virginiana L. var. melanocarpa (Nels.) Sarg. Black chokecherry

Medium shrubs 0.5 to 2 m (1.6 to 6.6 ft) tall:

Artemisia tridentata Nutt. ssp. vaseyana (Rydb.) Beetle Mountain big sagebrush

Artemisia tridentata Nutt. ssp. wyomingensis Beetle & Young Wyoming big sagebrush

Ceanothus velutinus Dougl. ex Hook. Snowbrush ceanothus

Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus (Hook.) Nutt. Yellow rabbitbrush

Ericameria nauseosa (Pallas ex Pursh) Nesom & Baird Gray rabbitbrush

Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. laxiflorum Hook. Slender buckwheat

Grayia spinosa (Hook.) Moq. Spiny hopsage

Holodiscus dumosus (Nutt. ex Hook.) A. Heller Rockspirea

Linanthus pungens (Torr.) J.M. Porter & L.A. Johnson Granite prickly phlox

Purshia tridentata (Pursh) DC. Bitterbrush

Ribes aureum Pursh Golden currant

Ribes cereum Dougl. Wax currant

Rosa woodsii Lindl. Woods’ rose

Symphoricarpos oreophilus A. Gray Mountain snowberry

Low shrubs <0.5 m tall:

Artemisia arbuscula Nutt. ssp. arbuscula Low sagebrush

Nestotus stenophyllus (A. Gray) R.P. Roberts, Urbatsch & Neubig Narrowleaf mock goldenweed

Phlox hoodii Richardson Spiny phlox

Herbs:

Achillea millefolium L. Common yarrow

Agoseris glauca (Pursh) Raf. Pale agoseris

Agoseris heterophylla (Nutt.) Greene Annual agoseris

Alisma triviale Pursh Northern water plantain

Allium platycaule S. Watson Broadstemmed onion

Antennaria dimorpha (Nutt.) T. & G. Low pussytoes
19

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Scientific name Common name

Antennaria rosea Greene Rosy pussytoes

Arnica sororia Greene Twin arnica

Astragalus filipes Torr. ex A. Gray Basalt milkvetch

Astragalus malacus A. Gray Shaggy milkvetch

Astragalus purshii Dougl. ex Hook. Woollypod milkvetch

Balsamorhiza sagitatta (Pursh) Nutt. Arrowleaf balsamroot

Balsamorhiza serrata A. Nelson & J.F. Macbr. Serrate balsamroot

Calochortus macrocarpus Dougl. Sagebrush mariposa lily

Castilleja chromosa A. Nels. Desert paintbrush

Castilleja pilosa (S. Watson) Rydb. Parrothead Indian paintbrush

Chenopodium L. Goosefoot

Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten. Bull thistle

Collinsia parviflora Lindl. Maiden blue eyed Mary

Collomia grandiflora Dougl. ex Lindl. Grand collomia

Crepis acuminata Nutt. Tapertip hawksbeard

Crepis occidentalis Nutt. Largeflower hawksbeard

Crepis L. Hawksbeard

Cystopteris fragilis (L.) Bernh. Brittle bladderfern

Descurainia incana (Bernh. ex Fisch. & C.A. Mey.) Dorn Mountain tansymustard

Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. Western tansymustard

Dodecatheon L. Shootingstar

Draba verna L. Spring draba

Epilobium brachycarpum C. Presl Tall annual willowherb

Eremogone aculeata S. Watson. Prickly sandwort

Eremogone congesta (Nutt.) Ikonn. Ballhead sandwort

Erigeron bloomeri A. Gray Scabland fleabane

Erigeron foliosus Nutt. Leafy fleabane

Erigeron linearis (Hook.) Piper Desert yellow fleabane

Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. Sulphur-flower buckwheat

Eriophyllum lanatum (Pursh) Forbes Common woolly sunflower

Erysimum repandum L. Spreading wallflower

Fritillaria atropurpurea Nutt. Spotted fritillary

Galium aparine L. Stickywilly

Gayophytum A. Juss. Groundsmoke

Geum triflorum Pursh Old man’s whiskers

Hackelia cusickii (Piper) Brand Cusick’s stickseed

Hesperochiron californicus (Benth.) S. Watson California hesperochiron

Hieracium scouleri Hook. Scouler’s woollyweed

Horkelia fusca Lindl. Pinewoods horkelia

Hydrophyllum capitatum Dougl. ex Benth. Ballhead waterleaf

Ionactis alpina (Nutt.) Greene Lava aster
20

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Scientific name Common name

Iris missouriensis Nutt. Rocky Mountain iris

Iva axillaris Pursh Povertyweed

Lactuca serriola L. Prickly lettuce

Leptosiphon harknessii (Curran) J.M. Porter & L.A. Johnson Harkness’ flaxflower

Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. Bulbless woodland-star

Lithospermum ruderale Dougl. ex Lehm. Western stoneseed

Lomatium leptocarpum (Torr. & A. Gray) J.M. Coult. & Rose Wasatch desertparsley

Lomatium macrocarpum (Nutt. ex Torr. & A. Gray) J.M. Coult. & Rose Bigseed biscuitroot

Lomatium nevadense (S. Watson) Coult. & Rose Nevada biscuitroot

Lomatium nudicaule (Pursh) J.M. Coult. & Rose Barestem biscuitroot

Lomatium triternatum (Pursh) Coult. & Rose Nineleaf biscuitroot

Lupinus argenteus Pursh Silvery lupine

Mertensia oblongifolia (Nutt.) G. Don Oblongleaf bluebells

Microsteris gracilis (Hook.) Greene Slender phlox

Montia linearis (Dougl. ex Hook.) Greene Narrowleaf minerslettuce

Navarretia intertexta (Benth.) Hook. Needleleaf navarretia

Navarretia leucocephala Benth. Whitehead navarretia

Nothocalais troximoides (A. Gray) Greene Sagebrush false dandelion

Orthocarpus cuspidatus Greene ssp. copelandii (Eastw.) T.I. Chuang & Heckard Copeland’s owl’s-clover

Packera cana (Hook.) W.A. Weber & Á. Löve Woolly groundsel

Pedicularis centranthera A. Gray Dwarf lousewort

Penstemon deustus Dougl. ex Lindl. Scabland penstemon

Penstemon humilis Nutt. ex A. Gray Low beardtongue

Phacelia heterophylla Pursh Varileaf phacelia

Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides Nutt. Wallflower phoenicaulis

Plagiobothrys hispidulus (Greene) I.M. Johnst. Sleeping popcornflower

Potentilla gracilis Dougl ex Hook. Slender cinquefoil

Ranunculus aquatilis L. White water crowfoot

Ranunculus occidentalis Nutt. Western buttercup

Rumex crispus L. Curly dock

Scutellaria angustifolia Pursh \Narrowleaf skullcap

Senecio integerrimus Nutt. var. exaltatus (Nutt.) Cronquist Columbia ragwort

Sidalcea oregana (Nutt. ex Torr. & A. Gray) A. Gray Oregon checkerbloom

Sisymbrium altissimum L. Tall tumblemustard

Stellaria longipes Goldie Longstalk starwort

Taraxia tanacetifolia (Torr. & A. Gray) Piper Tansyleaf evening primrose

Toxicoscordion venenosum (S. Wats.) Rydb. Meadow deathcamas

Trifolium gymnocarpon Nutt. Hollyleaf clover

Trifolium longipes Nutt. Longstalk clover

Trifolium macrocephalum (Pursh) Poir. Largehead clover

Trifolium L. Clover
21

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Scientific name Common name

Viola beckwithii Torr. & A. Gray Beckwith’s violet

Viola praemorsa Dougl. ex Lindl. Canary violet

Viola L. Violet

Grasses, sedges, and rushes:

Achnatherum thurberianum (Piper) Barkworth Thurber’s needlegrass

Alopecurus aequalis Sobol. Shortawn foxtail

Alopecurus geniculatus L. Water foxtail

Bromus carinatus Hook. & Arn. California brome

Bromus hordeaceus L. Soft brome

Bromus tectorum L. Cheatgrass

Carex douglasii Boott Douglas’ sedge

Carex filifolia Nutt. Threadleaf sedge

Carex petasata Dewey Liddon sedge

Carex rossii Boott Ross’ sedge

Carex utriculata Boott Northwest Territory sedge

Carex vallicola Dewey Valley sedge

Danthonia unispicata (Thurb.) Munro ex Macoun Onespike danthonia

Deschampsia cespitosa (L.) P. Beauv. Tufted hairgrass

Deschampsia danthonioides (Trin.) Munro Annual hairgrass

Eleocharis R. Br. Spikerush

Elymus elymoides (Raf.) Swezey Squirreltail

Festuca idahoensis Elmer Idaho fescue

Hordeum brachyantherum Nevski Meadow barley

Hordeum jubatum L. Foxtail barley

Juncus balticus Willd. Mountain rush

Koeleria macrantha (Ledeb.) Schult. Prairie Junegrass

Melica stricta Bol. Rock melicgrass

Poa alpina L. Alpine bluegrass

Poa bulbosa L. Bulbous bluegrass

Poa pratensis L. Kentucky bluegrass

Poa secunda J. Presl Sandberg bluegrass

Poa secunda J. Presl ssp. juncifolia (Scribn.) Soreng. Big bluegrass

Pseudoroegneria spicata (Pursh) Á. Löve Bluebunch wheatgrass

a Nomenclature for vascular plants, ferns, and fern-allies follows the Flora of North America (1993+) and the Oregon Flora Project website 

(Cook and Sundberg 2014).

b

 Compiled from field surveys (Schuller and Grinter 2014). 
22

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Appendix 2: Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds, and Mammals 

Expected to Use Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Areaa b

Family Scientific name Common name

Amphibians:

Ambystomatidae Ambystoma macrodactylum Long-toed salamander

Pelobatidae Scaphiopus intermontanus Great Basin spadefoot

Reptiles:

Boidae Charina bottae Rubber boa

Colubridae Coluber constrictor Racer

Hypsiglena torquata Night snake

Masticophis taeniatus Striped whipsnake

Pituophis melanoleucus Gopher snake

Thamnophis elegans Western terrestrial garter snake

Thamnophis sirtalis Common garter snake

Iguanidae Phrynosoma douglasii Short-horned lizard

Sceloporus graciosus Sagebrush lizard

Sceloporus occidentalis Western fence lizard

Uta stansburiana Side-blotched lizard

Scincidae Eumeces skiltonianus Western skink

Viperidae Crotalus viridis Western rattlesnake

Birds:

Accipitridae Accipiter cooperii Cooper’s hawk

Accipiter cyaneus Northern harrier

Accipiter gentilis Northern goshawk

Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned hawk

Aquila chrysaetos Golden eagle

Buteo regalis Ferruginous hawk

Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk

Buteo swainsoni Swainson’s hawk

Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald eagle

Cathartidae Cathartes aura Turkey vulture

Falconidae Falco mexicanus Prairie falcon

Falco peregrinus Peregrine falcon

Falco sparverius American kestrel

Phasianidae Alectoris chukar Chukar

Centrocercus urophasianus Sage grouse

Dendragapus obscurus Blue grouse

Columbidae Columbia livia Rock dove

Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
23

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Family Scientific name Common name

Tytonidae Tyto alba Barn owl

Strigidae Asio otus Long-eared owl

Bubo virginianus Great horned owl

Otus flammeolus Flammulated owl

Caprimulgidae Chordeiles minor Common nighthawk

Phalaenoptilus nuttallii Common poorwill

Apodidae Aeronautes saxatalis White-throated swift

Archilochus alexandri Black-chinned hummingbird

Picidae Colaptes auratus Northern flicker

Sphyrapicus ruber Red-breasted sapsucker

Tyrannidae Contopus sordidulus Western wood-pewee

Empidonax oberholseri Dusky flycatcher

Empidonax wrightii Gray flycatcher

Sayornis saya Say’s phoebe

Hirundinidae Tachycineta thalassina Violet-green swallow

Corvidae Corvus corax Common raven

Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus Pinyon jay

Nucifraga columbiana Clark’s nutcracker

Paridae Parus gambeli Mountain chickadee

Aegithalidae Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit

Sittidae Sitta carolinensis White-breasted nuthatch

Troglodytidae Salpinctes obsoletus Rock wren

Troglodytes aedon House wren

Muscicapidae Catharus ustulatus Swainson’s thrush

Myadestes townsendi Townsend’s solitaire

Polioptila caerulea Blue-gray gnatcatcher

Sialia mexicana Western bluebird

Mimidae Oreoscoptes montanus Sage thrasher

Bombycillidae Bombycilla cedrorum Cedar waxwing

Laniidae Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike

Vireonidae Vireo solitarius Blue-headed vireo

Emberizidae Amphispiza belli Sage sparrow

Chondestes grammacus Lark sparrow

Dendroica coronata Yellow-rumped warbler

Dendroica petechia Yellow warbler

Euphagus cyanocephalus Brewer’s blackbird

Junco hyemalis Dark-eyed junco
24

GENERAL TECHNICAL REPORT PNW-GTR-946

Family Scientific name Common name

Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird

Oporornis tolmiei Macgillivray’s warbler

Pipilo chlorurus Green-tailed towhee

Pooecetes gramineus Vesper sparrow

Spizella breweri Brewer’s sparrow

Spizella passerina Chipping sparrow

Vermivora celata Orange-crowned warbler

Fringillidae Carpodacus cassinii Cassin’s finch

Coccothraustes vespertinus Evening grosbeak

Mammals:

Soricidae Sorex merriami Merriam’s shrew

Sorex preblei Preble’s shrew

Sorex trowbridgii Trowbridge’s shrew

Talpidae Scapanus latimanus Broad-footed mole

Vespertilionidae Antrozous pallidus Pallid bat

Myotis ciliolabrum Western small-footed myotis

Myotis evotis Long-eared myotis

Ochotonidae Ochotona princeps American pika

Leporidae Lepus townsendii White-tailed jackrabbit

Sylvilagus nuttallii Mountain cottontail

Sciuridae Glaucomys sabrinus Northern flying squirrel

Marmota flaviventris Yellow-bellied marmot

Spermophilus beldingi Belding’s ground squirrel

Spermophilus lateralis Golden-mantled ground squirrel

Tamias minimus Least chipmunk

Tamias amoenus Yellow-pine chipmunk

Tamiasciurus douglasii Douglas’ squirrel

Heteromyidae Dipodomys ordii Ord’s kangaroo rat

Perognathus parvus Great Basin pocket mouse

Muridae Lemmiscus curtatus Sagebrush vole

Microtus longicaudus Long-tailed vole

Microtus montanus Montane vole

Neotoma lepida Desert woodrat

Onychomys leucogaster Northern grasshopper mouse

Dipodidae Zapus princeps Western jumping mouse

Erethizontidae Erethizon dorsatum Common porcupine

Canidae Canis latrans Coyote
25

Fish Creek Rim Research Natural Area Guidebook Supplement 50

Family Scientific name Common name

Mustelidae Mustela frenata Long-tailed weasel

Taxidea taxus American badger

Felidae Felis concolor Mountain lion

Lynx rufus Bobcat

Cervidae Cervus elaphus Elk

Odocoileus hemionus ssp. hemionus Mule deer

Bovidae Antilocapra americana Pronghorn

Ovis canadensis Bighorn sheep

a

 Nomenclature taken from Csuti et al. 1997. Atlas of Oregon wildlife. Corvallis, OR: Oregon State University 

Press. 492 p. + map.

b

 Compiled from habitat descriptions and distribution maps in Csuti et al. 1997. Atlas of Oregon wildlife. 

Corvallis, OR: Oregon State University Press. 492 p. + map.



Pacific Northwest Research Station

Website http://www.fs.fed.us/pnw/

Telephone (503) 808–2592

Publication requests (503) 808–2138

FAX (503) 808–2130

E-mail pnw_pnwpubs@fs.fed.us

Mailing address Publications Distribution

Pacific Northwest Research Station

P.O. Box 3890

Portland, OR 97208–3890
U.S. Department of Agriculture

Pacific Northwest Research Station

1220 SW 3rd Ave., Suite 1400

P.O. Box 3890

Portland, OR 97208–3890

Official Business

Penalty for Private Use, $300