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Natural Environment Study (Minimal Impacts) <br />noise, vibration, increased human activity, and dust, etc. For any active <br />nest(s) identified, the qualified biologist shall establish an appropriate <br />buffer zone around the active nest(s). The appropriate buffer shall be <br />determined by the qualified biologist based on species, location, and <br />the nature of the proposed activities. Project activities shall be avoided <br />within the buffer zone until the nest is deemed no longer active by the <br />qualified biologist. <br />4.1.5. Discussion of California Horned Lark <br />The California horned lark is a small songbird that is known to occur within the <br />vicinity of the BSA. It is a subspecies of horned lark (Eremophila alpestris) and is <br />considered a California Special Animal, which is an administrative designation made <br />by the CDFW and carries no formal legal status. However, Section 15380 of the <br />CEQA Guidelines indicates that these species should be included in an analysis of <br />project impacts if they can be shown to meet the criteria of sensitivity outlined <br />therein. The subspecies utilizes open grasslands and fields and prefers bare ground for <br />nesting. Several disturbed or barren areas in the BSA provide potentially suitable <br />habitat for this subspecies, but it is considered marginal because of the proximity to <br />busy urban streets and associated anthropogenic disturbances. <br />4.1.5.1. SURVEY RESULTS <br />The field survey was conducted during the breeding season, and no California horned <br />larks were observed in or near the BSA. <br />4.1.5.2. PROJECT IMPACTS <br />The Project is not expected to impact the California horned lark because it has a low <br />probability of occurrence in the BSA. <br />4.1.5.3. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS/COMPENSATORY <br />MITIGATION <br />During the breeding season, the California horned lark is the only subspecies of <br />horned lark in non -desert Southern California; however, from September through <br />April or early May, other subspecies visit the area. Impacts to the California horned <br />lark will be avoided with implementation of Measure BI0-2. <br />4.1.6. Discussion of Special -Status Bat Species <br />As shown in Table 2b, the BSA contains potentially suitable habitat for seven special - <br />status bat species. Two of these species are considered California Special Animals <br />................................................................................................................................................ . <br />Fairview Street Improvements from 9th Street to 16th Street and Bridge Replacement Project 41 <br />