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Table of Contents – SWH Ecoregion 3E Criterion Schedule IDENTIFICATION OF Significant Wildlife Habitat 1. 1 Seasonal Concentration Areas of Animals Moose Late Winter Cover Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas (Terrestrial) Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas (Aquatic) Shorebird Migratory Stopover Area Bat Hibernacula Bat Maternity Colonies Bat Migratory Stopover Area Turtle Wintering Areas Reptile Hibernacula Colonially -Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat (Bank and Cliff) Colonially -Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat Breeding Habitat (Tree/Shrubs) Colonially -Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat (Ground) 1.2 Rare Vegetation Communities or Specialized Habitat for Wildlife 1.2.1 Rare Vegetation Communities Cliffs and Talus Slopes Rare Treed Type: - Red and White Pine Stands Rare Treed Type: - Black Ash Rare Treed Type - Elm Rare Treed Type: - Oak Rare Treed Type -Red and Sugar Maple Rare Treed Type: -Yellow Birch Rock Barren Bog Tallgrass Prairie Sand Dunes Great Lakes Arctic-Alpine Shoreline Type Hardwood Swamps 3 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 15 15 17 18 18 19 20 21 21 21 21 23 23 24 DRAFT February 2012 1.2.2 Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Waterfowl Nesting Area Bald Eagle and Osprey Nesting, Foraging and Perching Habitat Woodland Raptor Nesting Habitat Turtle Nesting Areas Seeps and Springs Aquatic Feeding Habitat Mineral Lick Denning Sites for Mink, Otter, Marten Fisher and Eastern Wolf Wolf Rendezvous Sites Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Woodland) Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetlands) Mast Producing Areas Sharp-tailed Grouse Leks 1.3 Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern (Not including Endangered or Threatened Species) Marsh Bird Breeding Habitat Open Country Bird Breeding Habitat Shrub/Early Successional Bird Breeding Habitat Special Concern and Rare Wildlife Species 1.4 Animal Movement Corridors Amphibian Movement Corridors Cervid Movement Corridors Furbearer Movement Corridor Eco-Region 3E 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 34 35 37 38 40 40 41 42 44 45 46 2 DRAFT February 2012 Eco-Region 3E SCHEDULE 3E: IDENTIFICATION OF Significant Wildlife Habitat This Schedule is designed to provide the recommended criteria for identifying Significant Wildlife Habitat (SWH) within Ecoregion 3E. Tables 1.1 through 1.4 within the Schedules provide guidance for SWH designation for the four categories of SWH outlined in the Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide and its Appendices cxlviii, cxlix. Table 1.5 contains and provides descriptions for exceptions criteria for ecoregional SWH which will be identified at an ecodistrict scale. Exceptions occur when criteria for a specific habitat are different within an ecodistrict compared to the remainder of an ecoregion or if a habitat only occurs within a restricted area of the ecoregion. The Schedules, including description of wildlife habitat, wildlife species, and the criteria provided for determining SWH, are based on science and expert knowledge. The ELC Ecosite codes indicate the ecosites (treed and non-treed) as outlined in Ecosites of Ontario – Operational Draft (April 20th, 2009). The information within these schedules will require periodic updating to keep pace with changes to wildlife species status in Species at Risk schedules, or as new scientific information pertaining to wildlife habitats becomes available. Therefore, OMNR will occasionally need to review and update these schedules and provide addenda. A reference document for all SWH is found after the schedules and includes citations for all ecoregional schedules. Each citation used to assist with the criteria for SWH will be indicated by a roman numeric symbol. Where no reference exists, OMNR expert opinion is used to for determination of criteria, this symbol “Í” represents when OMNR expert opinion was utilized to develop defining criteria. Criteria For Significant Wildlife Habitat in Ecoregion 3E 1. 1 Seasonal Concentration Areas Seasonal Concentration Areas are areas where wildlife species occur annually in numbers at certain times of the year, sometimes highly concentrated within relatively small areas. In spring and autumn, migratory wildlife species will concentrate where they can rest and feed. Other wildlife species require habitats where they can survive winter. Examples of Seasonal Concentration Areas include breeding bird colonies and hibernation sites for bats cxlviii. Table 1.1 outlines which Seasonal Concentration Areas constitute SWH. Table 1.1 Seasonal Concentration Areas for Wildlife Species Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species ELC Ecosite Codes Moose B036 - 038, Moose Late B049-053, Winter Cover B065-068 B081-087 Rationale Habitat important B098-102 CANDIDATE SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Late winter moose habitat is characterized by dense conifer cover with greater than 60% canopy closure and >6m in height. Upland sites are preferred cxcv. CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Field Studies will confirm the use of these areas as late winter habitat by moose during the months of March and April. Moose are very difficult to observe 3 Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species for providing cover and minimizing snow depths allowing movement of moose in late winter. DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources B114-117 Snow depth in excess of 70cm More common on restrict moose movement during deeper soils with winter, however late winter thermal dense conifer cover refuge is important in relieving heat and vegetation in stress. the understory for browse. These habitats are extensively used by moose during late spring and summer due to the shade provided cxcv . Conifer stands >50ha cxcv, dominated by tall trees >6m, on gentle to moderately rugged sites with deep soils. Areas identified as rating 3 or 4 cxcv for late winter moose habitat are Candidate SWH. Information Sources OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. The Selected Wildlife and habitat Inventory Manual (1998)cxcv outlines the inventory method for Late Winter Moose Habitat. Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas (Terrestrial) Rationale; Habitat important to migrating American Black Duck Wood Duck Green-winged Teal Blue-winged Teal Mallard Northern Pintail Northern Shoveler American Wigeon Focus on sites that have appropriate vegetation and highest likelihood of seasonal water accumulation B060-062 Fields with sheet water during Spring (mid March to May). Fields flooding during spring melt and run-off provide important invertebrate foraging habitat for migrating waterfowl. Flood plains (flooded river banks) Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria in late winter habitat, therefore any number of moose observed or moose tracks and trails observed in the habitat confirm this habitat as a SWH. The area of the SWH is the area of treed ecosites associated with the winter cover area plus 300 m surrounding the site cxlviii. The relative importance of the site to the surrounding landscape should be considered. Significant sites may be only one of few in the area cxlviii. SWHDSS cxlix Index #24 provides development effects and mitigation measures for aquatic feeding areas, similar effects and mitigation can be used for late winter habitat. Studies carried out and verified presence of an annual concentration of any listed species, evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi. Any mixed species aggregations 4 Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species waterfowl. Gadwall Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas (Aquatic) Canada Goose Cackling Goose Snow Goose American Black Duck Northern Pintail Northern Shoveler American Wigeon Gadwall Green-winged Teal Blue-winged Teal Hooded Merganser Common Merganser Lesser Scaup Rationale; Important for local and migrant waterfowl populations during the spring or fall migration or both periods DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources B077-079 Cultivated fields with waste B093-095 grains are commonly used by B109-111 waterfowl, these are not considered SWH. Plus evidence of Information Sources annual spring Anecdotal information from the flooding from melt landowner, adjacent landowners water or run-off or local naturalist clubs may be within identified good information in determining Ecosites. occurrence. EIS Reports Sites documented through waterfowl planning processes (eg. EHJV implementation plan) Naturalist Clubs Ducks Unlimited Canada Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) Waterfowl Concentration Area B142-152 Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria of 100Í or more individuals required. The area of the flooded field ecosite habitat plus a 100-300m radius buffer dependant on local site conditions and adjacent land use is the significant wildlife habitat cxlviii. Annual use of habitat is documented from information sources or field studies (annual use can be based on studies or determined by past surveys with species numbers and dates). SWHDSS cxlix Index #7 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Studies carried out and verified Ponds, marshes, lakes, bays, coastal inlets, and watercourses presence of: used during migration. Sewage Aggregations of 100Í or more treatment ponds and storm water individuals of listed species ponds do not qualify as a SWH, for 7 daysÍ, results in > 700 however a reservoir managed as waterfowl use days. a large wetland or pond/lake Areas with annual staging of does qualify. ruddy ducks, canvasbacks, These habitats have an abundant redheads and trumpeter swans food supply (mostly aquatic are SWH cxlix invertebrates and vegetation in The combined area of the shallow water); ELC ecosites and a 100m Information Sources radius area is the SWH cxlviii 5 Wildlife Habitat combined. Sites identified are usually only one of a few in the ecodistrict. Wildlife Species Greater Scaup Long-tailed Duck Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Black Scoter Ring-necked Duck Common Goldeneye Bufflehead Redhead Ruddy Duck Red-breasted Merganser Brant Canvasback Tundra Swan Trumpeter Swan Greater Yellowlegs Lesser Yellowlegs Marbled Godwit Hudsonian Godwit Black-bellied Plover Rationale; High quality American Golden-Plover shorebird Semipalmated Plover stopover habitat is Solitary Sandpiper extremely rare Spotted Sandpiper Shorebird Migratory Stopover Area DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources OMNR District staff. Canadian Wildlife Service staff know the larger, most significant sites. Check website: http://wildspace.ec.gc.ca Naturalist clubs often are aware of staging/stopover areas. OMNR Wetland Evaluations indicate presence of locally and regionally significant waterfowl staging. Sites documented through waterfowl planning processes (eg. EHJV implementation plan) Ducks Unlimited projects Element occurrence specification on NatureServe Explorer: http://www.natureserve.org Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) Waterfowl Concentration Area B005-006 B160-162 B170-172 B176-178 B186-188 B204 B207 Shorelines of lakes, rivers and wetlands, including beach areas, bars and seasonally flooded, muddy and un-vegetated shoreline habitats. Great Lakes coastal shorelines, including groynes and other forms of armour rock lakeshores, are extremely important for migratory shorebirds in May to mid-June and Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Wetland area and shorelines associated with sites identified within the SWHTG cxlviii Appendix K cxlix are significant wildlife habitat. Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi Annual Use of Habitat is Documented from Information Sources or Field Studies (Annual can be based on completed studies or determined from past surveys with species numbers and dates recorded). SWHDSS cxlix Index #7 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Studies confirming: Presence of 3 or more of listed species and > 1000Í shorebird use days during spring or fall migration period. (shorebird use days are the accumulated number of shorebirds counted per day over the course of the fall or spring migration period) 6 Wildlife Habitat and typically has a long history of use. Wildlife Species Semipalmated Sandpiper Pectoral Sandpiper White-rumped Sandpiper Baird’s Sandpiper Least Sandpiper Stilt Sandpiper Short-billed Dowitcher Red-necked Phalarope Wilson’s Phalarope Whimbrel Ruddy Turnstone Sanderling Dunlin Wilson’s Snipe Big Brown Bat Little Brown Myotis Tri-coloured Bat/Eastern Rationale; Bat hibernacula Pipistrelle are rare habitats in Northern Myotis all Ontario Eastern Small-footed landscapes. Myotis Bat Hibernacula DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources early July to October. Storm water retention ponds and sewage lagoons are not considered SWH. Information Sources Western hemisphere shorebird reserve network. Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) Ontario Shorebird Survey. Bird Studies Canada Ontario Nature Local birders and naturalist clubs. Temiskaming Birds: http://timbirds.info/ NHIC Shorebird Migratory Concentration Area Hibernacula may be Hibernacula may be found in found in abandoned abandoned caves, mine shafts, caves, mine shafts, underground foundations and underground karsts. The locations and site foundations characteristics of bat (Karsts) and these hibernacula are relatively ecosites: poorly known. B158-159 Primary criteria is identification B164-165 of known feature B174-175 Buildings are not considered to B180-181 be SWH) Caves and mine shafts are the important features. Commonly associated as Information Sources OMNR for possible locations and contact for local experts NHIC Bat Hibernaculum/Nursery. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Sites used for multiple years are more significant. The area of significant shorebird habitat includes the mapped ELC ecosites plus a 100m radius area cxlviii Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi SWHDSS cxlix Index #8 provides development effects and mitigation measures. All sites with confirmed hibernating bats are SWH Í. The area includes 1000m radius around the entrance of the hibernaculum cxlviii, ccvii, Í. Studies are to be conducted during the peak swarming period (Aug. – Sept.). Surveys should be conducted following methods outlined in the “Guideline for Wind Power Projects Potential Impacts to Bats and Bat Habitats” ccv. SWHDSS cxlix Index #1 provides development effects and mitigation measures. 7 Wildlife Habitat Bat Maternity Colonies Rationale; Known locations of treed bat maternity colonies is extremely rare in all Ontario landscapes. Wildlife Species Big Brown Bat Little Brown Myotis Silver-haired Bat Northern Myotis DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources components of Ministry of Northern either Cliff or Rock Development and Mines and Barren ecosites. NRVIS for location of mine shafts and mine locations. Once feature is Clubs that explore caves (e.g. identified the Caving Canada substrate (http://www.cancaver.ca/) classification can Sierra Club) be used to identify University Biology Departments characteristics and with bat experts. potential/suitability of identified or suspected hibernacula. Maternity colonies Maternity colonies can be found in considered SWH tree cavities, vegetation and often in are found in treed buildings xxii, xxv, xxvi, xxvii, xxxi Ecosites. (buildings are not considered to be B015-019 SWH). B023-028 Maternity roosts are not found in B039-043 caves and mines in Ontario xxii. B054-059 Maternity colonies located in B069-076 Mature (dominant trees > 80yrs B087-092 old) deciduous or mixed forest B103-108 stands ccix, ccx with >10/ha large B118-125 diameter (>25cm dbh) wildlife trees ccvii. Aspen is an Female Bats prefer wildlife important feature in trees (snags) of decay class 1 or Ecoregion 3E, 2 ccxii or class 2-4 ccxiv, can be primarily the living or with bark mostly presence of larger intact. diameter trees in Northern Myotis prefer older mixed-wood contiguous tracts of older forest stands. cover for foraging and roosting Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria All Maternity Colonies are considered SWH The area of the habitat includes the entire woodland or the forest stand ELC Ecosite containing the maternity colonyÍ. Evaluation methods for maternity colonies should be conducted following methods outlined in the “Guideline for Wind Power Projects Potential Impacts to Bats and Bat Habitats” ccv. SWHDSS cxlix Index #1 provides development effects and mitigation measures. 8 Wildlife Habitat Bat Migratory Stopover Area Wildlife Species Hoary Bat Eastern Red Bat Silver-haired Bat Rationale: Movement corridors for long distance migrant bats are extremely important as these species of bats are susceptible to land use change and installation of obstacles that may affect movement patterns. Particularly important in ecodistrict 3E-4. Turtle Wintering Painted Turtle Areas Special Concern: DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources in snags and trees ccix Silver-haired Bats prefer older mixed or deciduous forest and form maternity colonies in tree cavities and small hollows. Older forest areas with at least 21 snags/ha are preferred ccx Information Sources OMNR for possible locations and contact for local experts University Biology Departments with bat experts. No specific ELC types. Long distance migratory bats typically migrate during late summer and early fall from summer breeding habitats throughout Ontario to southern wintering areas. Their annual fall migrations concentrate these species of bats at stopover areas. The location and characteristics of stopover habitats are generally unknown. Information Sources OMNR for possible locations and contact for local experts University Biology Departments with bat experts. B128-142 B145-152 For most turtles, wintering areas are in the same general area as their core habitat. Water has to be deep Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria The confirmation criteria and habitat areas for this SWH are still being determined cxlix SWHDSS Index #38 provides development effects and mitigation measures Presence of one or more overwintering Painted Turtles is 9 Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species Snapping Turtle Rationale; Generally sites are the only known sites in the area. Sites with the highest number of individuals are most significant. Reptile Hibernacula Rationale; Generally sites are the only known sites in the DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources enough not to freeze and have soft mud substrates. Over-wintering sites are permanent water bodies, large wetlands, and bogs or fens with adequate Dissolved Oxygen. cix, For all snakes, habitat may be found in any forested ecosite in northern Ontario. Talus, rock barren, crevice cx, cxi, cxviii Year-round persistence of standing or flowing water to depth, or presence of springs to prevent freezing is key. Information Sources Reports and other information available from CAs. Local naturalists and experts, as well as university herpetologists may also know where to find some of these sites. OMNR ecologist or biologist may be aware of locations of wintering turtles NHIC, Ontario Herpetofaunal Summary Atlas, Ontario Herpetofaunal Atlas. Snakes: Gartersnake Smooth Green Snake Northern Ringneck Snake Northern Redbelly Snake Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria significantÍ. One or more Snapping Turtle over-wintering within a wetland is significantÍ. The mapped ELC ecosite area with the over wintering turtles is the SWH. If the hibernation site is within a stream or river, the deep-water pool where the turtles are over wintering is the SWH. Over wintering areas may be identified by searching for congregations (Basking Areas) of turtles on warm, sunny days during the fall (Aug. – Sept.) or spring (Apr. - May). Congregation of turtles is more common where wintering areas are limited and therefore significant cix, cx, cxi, cxii. SWHDSS cxlix Index #28 provides development effects and mitigation measures for turtle wintering habitat. For snakes, hibernation takes place Studies confirming: in sites located below frost lines in Presence of snake hibernacula burrows, rock crevices and other used by a minimum of five natural locations. Areas of broken individuals of a snake sp. or; and fissured rock are particularly individuals of two or more valuable since they provide access snake spp. to subterranean sites below the frost Congregations of a minimum of 10 Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species area. Sites with the highest number of individuals are most significant. Bank Swallow Colonially Cliff Swallow Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat (Bank and Cliff) Rationale; DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources xliv, li, cxii and caves are line . Wetlands can also be more typically important over-wintering habitat in related to these conifer or shrub swamps and habitats. swales, poor fens, or depressions in bedrock terrain with sparse trees or Many suitable shrubs with sphagnum moss or conditions also sedge hummock ground cover. observed in the very shallow Observation of congregating snakes ecosites on sunny warm days in the spring particularly on or fall is a good indicator. The fractured bedrock existence of rock piles or slopes, and lower veg stone fences, and crumbling cover Open and foundations. Sparse Tall/Low Treed or Shrub Information Sources Systems. In spring, local residents or B008-028 landowners have observed the B128-139 emergence of snakes on their B158-159 property (e.g. old dug wells). B164-165 Reports and other information B167-172 available from CAs. B174-175 Local naturalists and experts, as B180-181 well as university herpetologists B183-188 may also know where to find some of these sites. OMNR ecologist or biologist. NHIC. Eroding banks, sandy hills, borrow pits, steep slopes, and sand piles (Bank Swallow). Cliff faces, bridge Any site or areas with exposed soil banks, undisturbed or naturally eroding that is not a licensed/permitted aggregate area. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria five individuals of a snake sp. or; individuals of two or more snake spp. near potential hibernacula (e.g. foundation or rocky slope) on sunny warm days in Spring (Apr/May) and Fall (Sept/Oct)Í . Note: Sites for hibernation possess specific habitat parameters (e.g. temperature, humidity, etc.) and consequently are used annually, often by many of the same individuals of a local population. Other critical life processes (e.g. mating) often take place in close proximity to hibernacula. As such, the feature in which the hibernacula is located plus a 30 m radius buffer is the SWHÍ SWHDSS cxlix Index #13 provides development effects and mitigation measures for snake hibernacula. Studies confirming: Presence of 1 or more nesting sites with 8cxlvix or more cliff swallow pairs or 50Í bank swallow during the breeding 11 Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species Historical use and number of nests in a colony make this habitat significant. An identified colony can be very important to local populations. All swallow population are declining in cxcix Ontario . Great Blue Heron Colonially Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat Bonaparte’s Gull Double-crested (Tree/Shrubs) Cormorant Rationale; Large colonies are important to local bird population, typically sites are only known colony in area and are used annually. DRAFT February 2012 Eco-Region 3E CANDIDATE SWH CONFIRMED SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Defining Criteria Codes Sources abutments, silos, season. Does not include man-made barns (Cliff structures (bridges or buildings) A colony identified as SWH will Swallows). or recently (2 years) disturbed include a 50m radius habitat area soil areas, such as berms, from the peripheral nests ccvii Habitat may be embankments, and soil or Field surveys to observe and found in, but not aggregate stockpiles. count swallow nests are to be limited to the completed during the breeding Does not include a following ecosites: licensed/permitted Mineral season (May-July). Evaluation B001-004 Aggregate Operation. methods to follow “Bird and B157-159 Information Sources Bird Habitats: Guidelines for B173-175 Wind Power Projects” ccxi Reports and other information available from CAs. SWHDSS cxlix Index #4 provides development effects and Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. mitigation measures. Bird Studies Canada; NatureCounts http://www.birdscanada.org/bird mon/ Naturalist Clubs. May include a wide Great Blue Herons nest in live or Studies confirming: variety of tall treed dead standing trees in wetlands, Presence of 4 or more active ecosites. Habitat lakeshores, islands, and nests of Great Blue Heron or 10 selection based on peninsulas. Shrubs and or more nests of Bonaparte’s close proximity to occasionally emergent vegetation Gull cxlviii. water body or on may also be used. For Great Blue Heron: the edge island: of the colony and a minimum Most nests in trees are 11 to 15 m B045-059 from ground, near the top of the 300m radius area of habitat or B064-076 tree. extent of the ELC ecosite B081-092 containing the colony or any Bonaparte’s Gulls nest in B097-108 island <15.0ha with a colony is coniferous trees (preferably B113-137 the SWH cc, ccvii. spruce-fir) near fens, bogs, B161-162 swamps, ponds or lakes. For Bonaparte’s Gull: the edge B177-178 of the colony and a minimum Double-crested Cormorants 150m radius area of habitat prefer to nest in trees but will surrounding the colony is the nest on the ground as well where 12 Wildlife Habitat Colonially Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat (Ground) Rationale; Colonies are important to local bird population, typically sites are only known colony in area and are used annually. Wildlife Species Herring Gull Ring-billed Gull Common Tern Double-crested Cormorant Brewer’s Blackbird DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources trees are limited or have died and fallen (OBBA). Information Sources Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas, colonial nest records. Ontario Heronry Inventory 1991 available from Bird Studies Canada or NHIC (OMNR). NHIC Mixed Wader Nesting Colony Aerial photographs can help identify large heronries. Reports and other information available from CAs OMNR District Offices. Local naturalist clubs. NRVIS Any rocky island or peninsula (natural or artificial) within a lake or large river (two-lined on a 1;50,000 NTS map). B160-165 B169-172 B176-181 B185-188 Close proximity to watercourses in open fields or pastures with Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria SWH ccvii. For Double-crested Cormorants: OMNR District offices will identify significance of colony and mitigation measures. Confirmation of active colonies must be achieved through site visits conducted during the nesting season (April to August) or by evidence such as the presence of fresh whitewash, dead young and/or eggshells SWHDSS cxlix Index #5 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Studies confirming: Nesting colonies of gulls and terns are on islands or peninsulas Presence of > 25 active nests for (natural or artificial) associated Herring Gulls or Ring-billed with open water or in marshy Gulls, >5 active nests for areas, lakes or large rivers (twoCommon Tern Í. lined on a 1:50,000 NTS map). Presence of 5 or more pairs for Brewers Blackbird colonies are Brewer’s BlackbirdÍ. found loosely on the ground or in The edge of the colony and a low bushes in close proximity to minimum 150m area of habitat, streams and irrigation ditches or the extent of the ELC within farmlands. ecosites containing the colony Double-crested Cormorants or any island <3.0ha with a prefer to nest in trees but will colony is the SWH cc, ccvii nest on the ground as well where For Double-crested Cormorants: trees are limited or have died and OMNR District offices will fallen (OBBA). identify significance of colony 13 Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Criteria and Information Codes Sources scattered trees or shrubs (Brewer’s Information Sources Blackbird). Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas, B008 rare/colonial species records. B020-021 Canadian Wildlife Service B030-031 Reports and other information B045-046 available from CAs B061-062 OMNR District Offices. B078-079 Local naturalist clubs. B094-095 NHIC Colonial Waterbird B110-111 Nesting Area B142-144 Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria and mitigation measures. Studies would be done during May/June when actively nesting. Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi SWHDSS cxlix Index #6 provides development effects and mitigation measures. 14 DRAFT February 2012 1.2 Rare Vegetation Communities or Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Eco-Region 3E 1.2.1 Rare Vegetation Communities Rare vegetation communities often contain rare species, particularly plants and small invertebrates, which depend on such habitats for their survival and cannot readily move to or find alternative habitats. When assessing rare vegetation communities, one of the most important criteria is the current representation of the community in the planning area based on its area relative to the total landscape or the number of examples within the planning area. There are a number of criterion used to define rare vegetation communities, however the NHIC uses a system that considers the provincial rank of a species or community type as a tool to prioritize protection efforts. These ranks are not legal designations but have been assigned using the best available scientific information, and follow a systematic ranking procedure developed by The Nature Conservancy (U.S.). The ranks are based on three factors: estimated number of occurrences, estimated community aerial extent, and estimated range of the community within the province: S1 Extremely rare - usually 5 or fewer occurrences in the province, or very few remaining hectares. S2 Very rare - usually between 5 and 20 occurrences in the province, or few remaining hectares. S3 Rare to uncommon - usually between 20 and 100 occurrences in the province; may have fewer occurrences, but with some extensive examples remaining. The setting of criteria for significant wildlife habitat (SWH) has incorporated NHIC’s ranking system into its process of determining rare vegetation communities and requires the vegetation community be considered dominant (i.e., absolute cover is >10% and/or relative cover is >35%; Lee 1998lxxviii). As such, a rare vegetation community is defined to include areas that contain a provincially rare vegetation community and/or areas that contain a vegetation community that is rare within the planning area. SWH Table 1.2.1 contains a listing of rare vegetation communities that are considered SWH for the planning area contained within Ecoregion 3E. . Table 1.2.1 Rare Vegetation Communities. Rare Vegetation Community ELC Ecosite Code Cliffs and Talus Slopes Cliffs: B157-159 B173-175 Rationale; Uncommon to rare in B201-203 Ecoregion 3E. Talus: CANDIDATE SWH Habitat Description Cliffs: Vertical consolidate bedrock communities with a minimum height of 3 m and a slope of >60° or CONFIRMED SWH Detailed Information and Sources OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. Noble 1982 ccxxi. NHIC may have Defining Criteria All cliff and talus slope ecosites are considered significant Í. The cliff or talus slope ecosite area is the SWH. 15 Rare Vegetation Community DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code B166-168 B182-184 Characteristic plant species of cliffs in 3E may include: Polypodium virginianum, Woodsia ilvensis, Cystopteris fragilis, Danthonia spicata, Dechampsia flexuosa, Aquilegia Canadensis, Sibbaldiopsis tridentate, Selaginella rupestris, Cladina rangiferina, Cladina mitis, Vaccinium angustifolium, Arctostaphylus uva-ursi, Diervilla lonicera, Betula papyrifera Characteristic plant species of talus in 3E may Detailed Information and Sources 173%. They have information on known limited plant growth locations. This information and species is available on their diversification. website (Biodiversity Ground cover Explorer). dominated by lichen Locations may be and bryophytes. available within NRVIS Plant communities layer: Significant are tolerant of Ecological Area environmental (SIGECOL.shp). extremes, well Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. adapted to Forest Resources desiccation, rapid Inventory (FRI). fluctuations in Aerial photographs. temperature, and low ANSI Site District and availability of Inventory reports nutrients. Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (OMNR 2000) cxlviii. Talus: Topographical maps of Rock accumulations area. at the base of cliffs, Soil survey reports and or former cobble Northern Ontario beaches left behind Engineering Geology after lake levels drop. Terrain Study mapping These have a skeletal (NOEGTS). soil structure, and can Local naturalists. have organic High cliffs (>40 m) can be accumulations queried from Digital between the rocks. Elevation Models. Lichen cover usually Conservation Authority. extensive. Trees and shrubs are stunted. Herbs and graminoids limited to Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Description Defining Criteria SWHDSS cxlix Index #21 provides development effects and mitigation measures. 16 Rare Vegetation Community Rare Treed Type: Red and White Pine Stands Rationale; Uncommon to rare in central and northern areas of Ecoregion 3E – they amount to less than 1% of the total forest. DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code include: Polypodium virginanum, Agrostis scabra, Aralis hispida, Woodisa ilvensis, Aralia nudicaulis, Cladina rangiferina, Cladina mitis, Diervilla lonicera, Alnus viridis ssp. crispa, Prunus pensylvanica, Betula papyrifera, Populus tremuloides B011 B015 B023 B027 B033 B039 B048 B054 B064 B069 B081 B087 B097 B103 B113 B118 Habitat Description Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Detailed Information and Sources Defining Criteria patches of organic or mineral soil accumulations. Red and White Pine stands attain their northern limit near the northern margin of the Clay Belt. They occur as sporadic, small stands and are generally found on dry, often exposed, and rocky sites. However, these conditions can vary. OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Explorer). Locations may be available within NRVIS layer: Significant Ecological Area (SIGECOL.shp). Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI). Stands should have > 10% absolute cover or > 35% relative cover of white and/or red pine. The red and white pine ecosite is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. 17 Rare Vegetation Community Rare Treed Type: Black Ash Rationale; Uncommon to rare in central and northern areas of Ecoregion 3E. Rare Treed Type: DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code Habitat Description B019 B028 B056 B059 B071 B076 B089 B092 B105 B108 B120 B125 Black Ash stands are found within low lying, predominantly alluvial material throughout the Clay Belt. B019 Elm stands are found Detailed Information and Sources Noble 1982ccxxi. Crins et al. 2009 ccxvi. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will possibly know locations through field operations. OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. Noble 1982 ccxxi. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Explorer). Locations may be available within NRVIS layer: Significant Ecological Area (SIGECOL.shp). Banton et al. 2009ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) – but may be under reported, especially along rivers. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will possibly know locations through field operations. Conservation Authority. OMNR Forester, Ecologist Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Stands should have > 10% absolute cover or > 35% relative cover of Black Ash. The black ash ecosite is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. Stands should have > 10% absolute 18 Rare Vegetation Community Elm Rationale; Uncommon to rare in central and northern areas of Ecoregion 3E. Rare Treed Type: Oak Rationale; Only found in southern portions of Ecoregion 3E. DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code B043 B056 B059 B071 B076 B089 B092 B105 B108 B120 B125 Habitat Description B017 B019 B028 B041 B043 B057 B059 B072 Hardwood canopy within lower topographic positions. Fresh to moist moisture regimes with variable substrate textures. within low lying, predominantly alluvial material throughout the Clay Belt. Detailed Information and Sources or Biologist may be aware of locations. Noble 1982 ccxxi. Crins et al. 2009 ccxvi. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Explorer). Locations may be available within NRVIS layer: Significant Ecological Area (SIGECOL.shp). Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) – but may be under reported, especially along rivers. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will possibly know locations through field operations. Conservation Authority. OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria cover or > 35% relative cover of Elm. The elm ecosite is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. Stands should have > 10% absolute cover or > 35% relative cover of Oak. The oak ecosite is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. 19 Rare Vegetation Community Rare Treed Type: Red and Sugar Maple Rationale; Uncommon to rare in central and northern areas of Ecoregion 3E. DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code B076 B090 B092 B106 B108 B121 B125 Habitat Description B018 B019 B028 B042 B043 B058 B059 B073(Mh) B074(Mr) B075 B076 B091 B092 B107 B108 B122(Mh) B123(Mr) Hardwood canopy containing red and/or sugar maple. Generally on warmer-than-normal sites with a higher nutrient regime. Detailed Information and Sources Explorer). Locations may be available within NRVIS layer: Significant Ecological Area (SIGECOL.shp). Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) – but may be under reported, especially along rivers. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will possibly know locations through field operations. Conservation Authority. OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. Noble 1982 ccxxi. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Explorer). Locations may be available within NRVIS layer: Significant Ecological Area (SIGECOL.shp). Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Stands should have > 10% absolute cover or > 35% relative cover of red and/or sugar maple. The red and/or sugar maple ecosite is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. 20 Rare Vegetation Community Rare Treed Type: Yellow Birch Rationale; Uncommon to rare in central and northern areas of Ecoregion 3E. Rock Barren DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code B124 B125 Habitat Description B019 B028 B040 B043 B055 B059 B070 B076 B088 B092 B0104 B108 B119 B125 Hardwood canopy consisting mostly of yellow birch. Generally on warmer-than-normal sites with a higher nutrient regime. Calcareous Rock Barren Exposed bedrock areas (mostly Detailed Information and Sources (FRI). Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will possibly know locations through field operations. Conservation Authority. OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Explorer). Locations may be available within NRVIS layer: Significant Ecological Area (SIGECOL.shp). Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) – some stands may have been misclassified as white birch. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will possibly know locations through field operations. Conservation Authority. OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Stands should have > 10% absolute cover or > 35% relative cover of yellow birch The yellow birch ecosite is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. All rock barren ecosites are considered significant Í. 21 Rare Vegetation Community Rationale; Rock barrens that are close to roads or trails can be significantly impacted by invasive species and/or trampling. DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code B179 B180 B181 Precambrian Rock Barren B163 B164 B165 Characteristic plant species of rock barrens in 3E may include: Danthonia spicata, Dechampsia flexuosa, Carex pensylvanica, Corydalis sempervirens, Aralis hispida, Agrostis scabra, Aralia nudicaulis, Pteridium aquilinum , Vaccinium angustifolium, Rubus spp., Diervilla lonicera, Betula papyrifera, Pinus banksiana, Populus tremuloides Habitat Description exposed rock with < 5 cm mineral or < 10 cm organic material) and < 25% vascular vegetation. Detailed Information and Sources of locations. Noble 1982 ccxxi. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Explorer). Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI). Conservation Authority. Soil survey reports and Northern Ontario Engineering Geology Terrain Study mapping (NOEGTS). Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria The rock barren ecosite area is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #21 provides development effects and mitigation measures. 22 Rare Vegetation Community Sand Dunes Notably: American Dune Grass Type Rationale; Uncommon to rare in Ecoregion 3E. DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code B005 B006 B142 Habitat Description Exposed mineral material community often associated with shorelines of lakes or exposed inland mineral material that has been shaped by eolian (wind) processes. Characteristic plant species of sand dunes grass type in 3E may include: Leymus mollis, Lathyrus japonicus, Prunus American Dune pumila var. pumila Grass Type Open grassy sand dunes with Indicator Species: American dune grass, beach pea, and sand cherry. Scattered white spruce forest islands may also occur. Great Lakes ArcticAlpine Shoreline Type B161 B162 Rationale; Rare in Ecoregion 3E. Characteristic plant species of Great Lakes arctic-alpine shoreline type in 3E may include: Carex capillaries, Castilleja septentrionalis, Cypripedium Found on the shoreline of Lake Superior on open basic bedrock. Vegetation consists mostly of arcticalpine species. Detailed Information and Sources OMNR Forester, Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. NHIC may have information on known locations. This information is available on their website (Biodiversity Explorer). Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI). Soil survey reports and Northern Ontario Engineering Geology Terrain Study mapping (NOEGTS). Conservation Authority. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Field studies confirm the presence of any of the characteristic plant speciesÍ The American Dune Grass Type of Sand Dune ecosite area is the SWH Í. B006 ecosites are considered rare in 3E and are considered SWH Í. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. OMNR Forester, Ecologist Limited to the shore of the Great or Biologist may be aware Lakes. of locations. NHIC may have All Great Lakes Arctic-Alpine information on known Shoreline Type ecosites are considered locations. This information significant Í. is available on their website (Biodiversity The Great Lakes Arctic-Alpine Explorer). Shoreline Type ecosite area is the Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. SWH. Conservation Authority. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. 23 Rare Vegetation Community Hardwood Swamps DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Habitat Description Code passerinum, Dryopteris fragrans, Elymus mollis, Empetrum nigrum, Euphrasia hudsoniana, Festuca brachyphylla, Hedysarum alpinum, Listera borealis, Lycopodium selago, Pinguicula vulgaris, Poa glauca, Poa glaucantha, Polygonum viviparum, Primula mistassinica, Sagina nodosa, Saxifraga aizoon, Scirpus cespitosus, Selaginella selanginoides, Tofieldia palustris, Trisetum spicatum, Vaccinium uliginosum, Vaccinium vitisidaea, Woodsia glabella B130 Dominant hardwood Detailed Information and Sources OMNR Forester, Ecologist Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria All hardwood swamp ecosites are 24 Rare Vegetation Community Rationale; Rare in Ecoregion 3E. DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Code B131 B132 B133 Detailed Information and Sources canopy that is located or Biologist may be aware within lower of locations. topographic positions NHIC may have and subject to information on known flooding. Nutrient locations. This information regime is rich and is available on their substrate is mostly website (Biodiversity moderately deep to Explorer). deep with variable Banton et al. 2009 ccxx. textures. Conservation Authority. Riley 1994 ccxxii Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Description Defining Criteria considered significant Í. The hardwood swamp ecosite is the SWH. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides direction for rare species and habitats. 25 DRAFT February 2012 Eco-Region 3E 1.2.2 Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Some wildlife species require large areas of suitable habitat for their long-term survival. Many wildlife species require substantial areas of suitable habitat for successful breeding. Their populations decline when habitat becomes fragmented and reduced in size cxlviii. Specialized habitat for wildlife is a community or diversity-based category, therefore, the more wildlife species a habitat contains, the more significant the habitat becomes to the planning area. The largest and least fragmented habitats within a planning area will support the most significant populations of wildlife. The specialized habitats for wildlife that are considered as SWH are outlined in Table 1.2.2. Table 1.2.2 Specialized Habitats of Wildlife considered SWH. Specialized Wildlife Habitat Waterfowl Nesting Area Rationale; Important to local waterfowl populations, sites with greatest number of species and highest number of individuals are significant. Wildlife Species CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes American Black Duck Northern Pintail Northern Shoveler Gadwall Blue-winged Teal Green-winged Teal Wood Duck Hooded Merganser Common Merganser Red-breasted Merganser Mallard Canada Goose American Widgeon Bufflehead Common Goldeneye All upland habitats located adjacent to ELC ecosites; B129-135 B140-152 B224 are Candidate SWH: Note: includes adjacency to provincially Significant Wetlands Habitat Criteria and Information Sources A waterfowl nesting area extends 120 m cxlix from a wetland (> 0.5 ha) or a cluster of 3 or more small (<0.5 ha) wetlands within 120 m of each individual wetland where waterfowl nesting is known to occur cxlix. Upland areas should be at least 120 m wide so that predators such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes have difficulty finding nests. Wood Ducks, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye and Hooded Mergansers utilize large diameter trees in woodlands for cavity nest sites. Information Sources Ducks Unlimited staff may know the locations of particularly productive nesting sites. OMNR District Staff OMNR Wetland Evaluations for indication of significant waterfowl nesting habitat. CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Studies confirmed: Presence of 3 or more nesting pairs for listed species excluding MallardsÍ, or; Presence of 10 or more nesting pairs for listed species including MallardsÍ. Nesting studies should be completed during the spring breeding season (April - July). Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi A field study confirming waterfowl nesting habitat will determine the boundary of the waterfowl nesting habitat for the SWH, this may be greater or less than 120 m cxlviii from the wetland and will provide enough habitat for waterfowl 26 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Bald Eagle and Osprey Nesting Habitat Rationale: Nests are used annually by these species. Suitable nesting locations may be impacted due to shoreline development. Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Osprey Special Concern Bald Eagle Treed communities directly adjacent to riparian areas – rivers, lakes, ponds and wetlands Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Reports and other information available from CAs. Nests are associated with lakes, ponds, rivers or wetlands along treed shorelines, islands, or on structures over water. Osprey nests are usually at the top of a tree whereas Bald Eagle nests are typically in super canopy trees in a notch within the tree’s canopy. Nests located on man-made objects such as telephone or hydro poles will not normally be considered as SWH, however the OMNR District retains discretion regarding significance of constructed nesting platforms. Information Sources NHIC compiles all known nesting sites for Bald Eagles in Ontario. OMNR values information (LIO/NRVIS) will list known nesting locations Nature Counts, Ontario Nest Records Scheme data. OMNR Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations of nesting raptors. In addition, these staff may know local naturalists that may be Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria to successfully nest. SWHDSS cxlix Index #25 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Studies confirm: One or more active Osprey or Bald Eagle nests in an area. Considered SWH if the nest has been used or suspected of use within the past 5 years; unless documented that the nest and other associated nests in the nesting area have been unoccupied within the past 3 consecutive years by Osprey or Bald Eagle cxlviii, ccvii: Some species have more than one nest in a given area and priority is given to the primary nest with alternate nests included within the area of the SWH. For an Osprey, the active nest and a 300 m radius around the nest is the SWH ccvii For a Bald Eagle the active nest and a 400-800 m radius around the nest is the SWH. cvi, ccvii Area of the habitat from 400-800m is dependant on site lines from the nest to the development and inclusion of perching and foraging 27 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Woodland Raptor Nesting Habitat Red-tailed Hawk Great Horned Owl: Broad-winged Hawk Sharp-shinned Hawk Merlin Coopers Hawk Northern Goshawk Great gray Owl Long-eared Owl Common Raven Rationale: These habitats may be used annually by some species. Nests sites for these species are rarely identified ------------------------in advance site Cavity Nesters/users: investigations; Saw-whet Owl Boreal Owl Barred Owl Northern Hawk Owl May be found in all forested ELC Ecosites. Habitat Criteria and Information Sources aware of the locations of raptor nests. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will identify additional nesting locations through field operations. Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas or Rare Breeding Birds in Ontario for species documented Reports and other information available from CAs. Local naturalists may know of other locations. Use maps and aerial photographs to identify forests with few roads that tend to have less human disturbance. All natural or conifer plantation woodland/forest stands lxxxviiii, lxxxix, xc, xci, xciii, xciv, xcv,xcvi, cxxxiii . Stick nests found in a variety of intermediate-aged to mature conifer, deciduous or mixed forests within tops or crotches of trees. Species such as Merlin or Coopers Hawk nest along forest edges sometimes on peninsulas or small off-shore islands. Some woodland raptors rely on cavity trees for nesting. They do not excavate their own cavities, but rely on natural cavities of sufficient size and those excavated by Pileated Woodpeckers. Larger diameter trees Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria habitat cvi SWHDSS cxlix Index #26 provides development effects and mitigation measures Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi Studies confirm: Presence of 1 or more occupied nests from species list is considered significant cxlviii . Northern Goshawk – A 400m radius around the nest or 28 ha of suitable habitat is the SWH ccvii . Barred Owl – A 200m radius around the nest is the SWH ccvii . Broad-winged Hawk, Coopers Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Red-tailed Hawk, Long-eared Owl – A 100m radius around the nest is the SWH ccvii. 28 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes American Kestrel (Northern Flying Squirrel use cavities as roosting sites in winter) Turtle Nesting Areas Rationale; These habitats are rare and when identified will often be the only breeding Painted Turtle Special Concern Species Snapping Turtle B003 B006-007 B031 B171-172 B187-188 Habitat Criteria and Information Sources are used most frequently, with nest cavities most often found in trembling aspen. Nests may be used again, or a new nest may be in close proximity to old nest. Information Sources OMNR Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations of nesting raptors. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies will identify additional nesting locations through field operations. Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas or Rare Breeding Birds in Ontario for species documented. Check data from Bird Studies Canada. Reports and other information available from CAs. Use maps and aerial photographs to identify forests with few roads that tend to have less human disturbance. Best nesting habitat for turtles are close to water and away from roads and sites less prone to loss of eggs by predation from skunks, raccoons or other animals. For an area to function as a turtlenesting area, it must provide sand and gravel that turtles are able to dig in and are located in open, sunny areas. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Merlin and Sharp-Shinned Hawk – A 50m radius around the nest is the SWH ccvii. Conduct field investigations from mid-March to end of May. The use of call broadcasts can help in locating territorial (courting/nesting) raptors and facilitate the discovery of nests by narrowing down the search area. SWHDSS cxlix Index #27 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Studies confirm: One or more Turtle nest is a SWHÍ. The area or collection of sites within an area of exposed mineral soils where the turtles nest, plus a radius of 30-100m around the nesting area dependant on slope, riparian 29 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes site for local populations of turtles. Seeps and Selected wildlife species Seeps/Springs are Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Nesting areas on the sides of municipal or provincial road embankments and shoulders are not SWH. Sand and gravel beaches adjacent to undisturbed shallow weedy areas of marshes, lakes, and rivers are most frequently used. Information Sources Use Ontario Soil Survey reports and maps to help find suitable substrate for nesting turtles (well-drained sands and fine gravels). Ontario Herpetofaunal Summary Atlas records or other similar atlases for uncommon turtles; location information may help to find potential nesting habitat for them. Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (Ontario Nature). NHIC Use aerial photographs and maps to narrow the search for prime nesting areas including shoreline beaches located near weedy areas of wetlands, lake and river shorelines, road embankments near turtle habitat, and stream crossings/culverts. Reports and other information available from CAs. Sightings by local Naturalist groups Any forested area (with <25% Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria vegetation and adjacent land use is the SWH cxlviii. Travel routes from wetland to nesting area are to be considered within the SWH cxlix . Field investigations should be conducted in prime nesting season typically late spring to early summer. SWHDSS cxlix Index #28 provides development effects and mitigation measures for turtle nesting habitat Field Studies confirm: 30 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species that utilize this feature: Rationale; Seeps/Springs are typical of headwater areas and are often at the source of coldwater streams. Ruffed Grouse Moose White-tailed Deer Black bear Northern two-lined Salamander. Rationale; Aquatic Feeding habitats are an extremely important habitat component for moose and other wildlife as they supply important Moose Habitat Criteria and Information Sources areas where ground meadow/field/pasture) within the water comes to the headwaters of a stream or river system cxlvii, cxlix surface. Often they . are found within Seeps and springs are important headwater areas feeding and drinking areas especially within forested in the winter will typically support a habitats. Any forested variety of plant and animal species cxx, cxxii, cxiv Ecosite within the . headwater areas of a Information Sources stream could have Topographical Map. seeps/springs. Thermography. Hydrological surveys conducted by CAs and MOE. Local naturalists and landowners may know some locations. Municipalities and Conservation Authorities may have drainage maps and headwater areas mapped. Habitat may be found OMNR maps these locations on in all forested Crown land and rate the site on a ecosites adjacent to scale of 1 – 4, with 4 having the water. greatest potential. Feeding sites classed 3 or 4 are candidate significant areasÍ. Identification of Moose Aquatic Feeding Areas should follow the method outlined in OMNR’s Selected Wildlife and Habitat Features: Inventory Manual cxcv • Wetlands and isolated embayments in rivers or lakes which provide an abundance of submerged aquatic vegetation such as pondweeds, water milfoil and yellow water lily are Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Springs Aquatic Feeding Habitat DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH Defining Criteria Presence of a site with 2 or moreÍ seeps/springs should be considered SWH. The area of ELC ecosite containing the seeps/springs is the SWH. The protection of the function of the feature considering the slope, vegetation, height of trees and groundwater condition need to be considered in delineation the habitat cxlviii. SWHDSS cxlix Index #30 provides development effects and mitigation measures Moose Aquatic Feeding Habitat identified and ranked 3 or 4 by OMNR are considered SWH. The area of the habitat includes the ELC ecosite area and adjacent stands (120m) of mixed or conifer forest, particularly those that provide thermal cover and/or travel corridors to other habitat features are considered significant cxcvii. Surveys should be conducted from mid June to end of July when submergent aquatic 31 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes nutrients. Forest cover adjacent to these areas is important as well to provide for summer thermal cover, screening and escape cover. Mineral Licks Rationale; Mineral licks are a valuable habitat component but are also very rare on the landscape. Moose Porcupine Habitat may be found in all treed ecosites. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Defining Criteria Sources preferred sites. Adjacent stands of vegetation has peaked cxcv. lowland conifer or mixed woods will Surveys should confirm the provide cover and shade cxlviii. use of the site by moose or Information Sources other species through observation of animal Local naturalists and landowners may know some locations. presence, tracks, etc. OMNR values information (NRVIS) If a SWH is determined for may list known locations Aquatic Feeding Habitat then Movement Corridors are to be OMNR Biologist may be aware of considered as outlined in locations. Table 1.4.1 of this Schedule Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) SWHDSS cxlix Index #24 companies may identify additional provides development effects MAFA locations through field and mitigation measures. operations. Topographical Maps together with aerial photographs will help locate potential sites. This habitat component is found in The area of the habitat is the upwelling groundwater and the soil wetland, seep or spring around these seepage areas. It typically containing the mineral lick and occurs in areas of sedimentary and 120m of undisturbed contiguous volcanic bedrock. In areas of granitic forest around the site dependant bedrock, the site is usually overlain with on level of disturbance in the calcareous glacial till cxlviii. area cxlviii. Information Sources Field investigations should be Local naturalists and landowners conducted in early spring prior may know some locations. to leaf out. Since sites will be very difficult to locate, consider OMNR values information (NRVIS) may list known locations using a small aircraft. OMNR Ecologist or Biologist may SWHDSS cxlix Index #29 be aware of locations. provides development effects and mitigation measures. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies may identify additional locations through field operations. 32 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Denning Sites for Mink, Otter, Gray Wolf Eastern Wolf Canada Lynx Marten Fisher Black Bear Rationale: Species are important furbearing mammals and den sites can be a limiting factor in sustaining populations. Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Mink Otter Gray Wolf Canada Lynx Special Concern Eastern Wolf Cavity Users Marten Fisher Habitat may be found in all treed ecosites. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Defining Criteria Mink prefer shorelines dominated by coniferous or mixed forests with dens usually underground. Mink will often use old muskrat lodges cxlviii. Mink may den in root masses along shorelines of water bodies. Otters prefer undisturbed shorelines along water bodies that support productive fish populations with abundant shrubby vegetation and downed woody debris for denning. They often use old beaver lodges or log jams and crevices in rock piles cxlviii. Marten and fisher share the same general habitat, requiring large tracts of coniferous or mixed forests of mature or older age classes. Denning sites are often in cavities in large trees or under large downed woody debris cxlviii. Wolves prefer a more interior forest condition for locating their den sites. Wolves require sandy ground, sloped for excavation (esker areas should be examined as potentially key sites). Lynx den sites are most often associated with the presence of downed woody debris. Wolf den sites (gray or eastern) and a 200m radius will be considered significant ccvii. Any known active denning site and a 100 m radius around it with the remaining listed species is considered to be significant cxlviii. Extensive searches for denning sites are not recommended as they are very difficult to locate but protection of appropriate habitat should be considered during planning. SWHDSS cxlix Index #31 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Black bears, particularly sub-adults, will often den in the base of hollow trees. In 3E such trees are rare and primarily 33 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Habitat Criteria and Information Sources consist of large diameter cedar or sometimes large white spruce. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Information Sources Local naturalists and landowners may know some locations. OMNR values information (NRVIS) may list known locations. OMNR Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. Sustainable Forestry Licence (SFL) companies may identify additional denning sites through field operations. Topographical Maps together with aerial photographs will help locate potential sites. Local trappers may know the location of prime denning sites. Rendezvous Sites Gray Wolf Special Concern Eastern Wolf Amphibian Eastern Newt Isolated open areas including bogs, fens, meadows, clearcuts. Rich swamps and • Rendezvous sites may be found in a variety of habitats such as open bogs, burns, clearcuts, beaver meadows, and open forest ccvii. • Rendezvous sites are often used by wolf packs during multiple years ccvii. • Areas used as rendezvous sites one year may be used as den sites in a subsequent year ccvii. • Wolves in remote areas, or where prone to harvest by humans, appear to have a low tolerance for human activity near rendezvous sites ccvii. Wetlands and pools (including The identified rendezvous site and a 200 m radius from the site are considered the SWH ccvii. Studies confirm: 34 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species ELC Ecosite Codes American Toad Spotted Salamander Four-toed Salamander Blue-spotted Salamander Rationale; Wetlands Gray Treefrog supporting Boreal Chorus Frog breeding for Northern Leopard Frog these amphibian Green Frog species are Mink Frog extremely Wood Frog important Spring Peeper within Northern Ontario landscapes. Breeding Habitat (Wetlands) Amphibian Breeding Habitat DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH Eastern Newt Blue-spotted Salamander Spotted Salamander thickets, vernal/seasonal pooling, riparian and variety of wetland interiors and margins B128-135 B141-152 B223-224 All treed upland ecosites, however more likely on fine Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Defining Criteria Sources vernal pools) >500m2 (about 25m Presence of breeding diameter) ccvii supporting high population of 1or more of the species diversity are significant; listed salamander species or 3 some small or ephemeral habitats or more of the listed frog or may not be identified on OMNR toad species with at least 20 mapping and could be important breeding individuals (adults, amphibian breeding habitats clxxxiv. juveniles, eggs/larval masses) lxxi, lxxiii Wetlands and pools need to persist cxlviii until mid-July The ELC ecosite area and the shoreline are the SWH. Presence of shrubs and logs increase significance of pond for some Surveys to confirm breeding to amphibian species because of be completed during spring available structure for calling, (Apr to June) when foraging, escape and concealment amphibians are migrating, from predators. calling and breeding within the Information Sources wetland habitats. Ontario Herpetofaunal Summary If a SWH is determined for Atlas Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetlands) then Movement Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (Ontario Nature). Corridors are to be considered as outlined in Table 1.4.1 of Canadian Wildlife Service this Schedule. Amphibian Road Surveys and Backyard Amphibian Call Count. SWHDSS cxlix Index #15 provides development effects OMNR Ecologist or Biologist may and mitigation measures. know of populations, wetland evaluations may be a good source of information.. Use maps or aerial photography to locate marsh habitat. Reports and other information available from CAs. Studies confirm; Presence of a wetland, lake or pond 2 of area >500m (about 25m Presence of 1 or more of the diameter) ccvii within or adjacent listed salamander species; or 2 35 Specialized Wildlife Habitat (Woodland). Rationale; These habitats are extremely important to amphibian biodiversity within a landscape and often represent the only breeding habitat for local amphibian populations. Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Four-toed Salamander Spring Peeper Wood Frog American Toad textured moist ecosites (e.g., B119125) The wetland breeding ponds (including vernal pools) may be permanent or seasonal, large or small in size and could be located within or adjacent to the woodland lxxii. Habitat Criteria and Information Sources (within 120m) to a woodland (no minimum size) clxxxii, lxiii, lxv, lxvi, lxvii, lxviii, lxix, lxx . The wetland, lake or pond and surrounding forest, would be the Candidate SWH. Some small wetlands may not be mapped and may be important breeding pools for amphibians. Pools need to be present until midJuly. Breeding pools within the woodland or the shortest distance from forest habitat are more significant because of reduced risk to migrating amphibians and more likely to be used. Woodlands with permanent ponds or those containing water in most years until mid-July are more likely to be used as breeding habitat cxlviii. Information Sources Ontario Herpetofaunal Summary Atlas for historical records Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (Ontario Nature). Local landowners may also provide assistance as they may hear springtime choruses of amphibians on their property. Contact local OMNR Ecologist or Biologist and wetland evaluations. Local field naturalist clubs Canadian Wildlife Service Amphibian Road Call Survey Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria or more of the frogs or toads with at least 100 individuals (adults, juveniles, eggs/larval masses) lxxi is significant. The habitat is the wetland and treed area or adjacent ELC treed ecosites. The amount of area protected is dependant on slope, riparian vegetation, high water mark, density and height of trees and ground/surface water condition cxlviii. A study to determine this SWH will be required during the spring when amphibians are migrating or are concentrated around suitable breeding habitat within the woodland. SWHDSS cxlix Index #14 provides development effects and mitigation measures 36 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Mast Producing Areas Rationale: Mast is a very important food requirement for many wildlife species. Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Examples of wildlife species utilizing this habitat: Black Bear White-tailed deer Ruffed Grouse All shrub and treed ecosites capable of producing mast. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Sources information. Ontario Vernal Pool Association (http://www.ontariovernalpools.org/) Significant tree species include mountain ash and pin cherry. Significant shrub species include blueberries, raspberries, beaked hazel and choke cherry cxlviii. Defining Criteria Some Oak or other hard-mast producing species may be present in 3E and its’ significance should be evaluated as encountered because of its importance as a food source for various wildlife species. Recently disturbed sites (fire or logging), large bedrock outcroppings, forest openings or utility corridors >1 ha provide excellent sites for mast producing shrubs cxlviii. Permanent open sites providing longterm food sources are more significant cxlviii . Natural open sites with abundant (50% ground cover) Í mast producing shrubs (e.g. Raspberry, Blueberry and Beaked hazel) species are considered significant cxlix. Anthropogenic disturbances (logging or otherwise) may be considered significant at the discretion of OMNR. Area of the early successional habitat or treed ELC ecosite with mast-producing trees or shrubs is the SWH. Surveys should be conducted from June to August when plants are actively growing to determine presence. SWHDSS cxlix Index #3 provides development effects and mitigation measures Information Sources OMNR Ecologists, Biologists or Foresters may know of important feeding sites or areas with high composition of mast producing trees through OMNR Wildlife Food Surveys. 37 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Sharp-tailed Grouse Leks Rationale: Leks are an important habitat feature required to maintain populations of sharp-tailed grouse. Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Sharp-tailed Grouse B029-031 B044-046 B060-062 B077-079 B093-095 B109-111 B126 B136-141 Habitat Criteria and Information Sources FRI maps to locate stands with mast producing trees. SFL companies may know of areas through regular forest inventory work. Local naturalists clubs or hunters may be aware of important locations. Aerial photography will assist in locating forest openings and bedrock outcrops. The lek or dancing ground consists of bare, grassy area as the core of the lekking area, and may contain some sparse shrubland. There is often a knoll or slightly elevated rise in topography associated with the site ccxix. This is a better drained site less likely to collect water. Leks are typically a grassy field/meadow separated by >15ha from adjacent shrublands and >30ha from adjacent treed areas. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Studies confirming lek habitat are to be completed from March to June. Any site confirmed with sharp-tailed grouse courtship activities is considered significantÍ The ELC ecosite plus a 200 meter area with shrub or deciduous trees is the lek habitatÍ Field/meadows are to be >15ha when adjacent to shrubland and >30ha when adjacent to deciduous stands ccxix. Field/meadows are to be as undisturbed as possible with low intensities of agriculture (light grazing or late haying) Leks will be used annually if not destroyed by cultivation or invasion by woody plants or tree planting ccxix 38 Specialized Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Codes Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Information Sources OMNR district office Bird watching clubs Local landowners Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas 39 DRAFT February 2012 1.3 Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern (Not including Endangered or Threatened Species) Eco-Region 3E Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern include wildlife species that are listed as Special Concern or rare, that are declining, or are featured species. Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern do not include habitats of Endangered or Threatened Species as identified by the Endangered Species Act 2007. Table 1.3 assists with the identification of SWH for Species of Conservation Concern. Table 1.3. Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern considered SWH. Wildlife Species CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite Marsh Bird Breeding Habitat Rationale; Rich wetlands for these bird species are very productive and rare in Northern Ontario landscapes. American Bittern Sora Red-necked Grebe Pied-billed Grebe Ring-necked Duck Lesser Scaup Ruddy Duck American Coot Sandhill Crane Virginia Rail Trumpeter Swan Ecosites: B134-B152 Information Sources Contact OMNR, wetland evaluations are a good source of information. Local naturalist clubs NHIC Records. Reports and other information available from CAs. Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas ccv. Special Concern: Yellow Rail Black Tern Open Country Bird Breeding Habitat Rationale; This wildlife habitat is declining throughout Ontario Vesper Sparrow Le Conte’s Sparrow Northern Harrier Savannah Sparrow Special Concern Short-eared Owl Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Nesting occurs in wetlands. All wetland habitat is to be considered as long as there is shallow water with emergent aquatic vegetation present cxxiv. All Field, Meadow and Sparse Shrub ecosites B08-09 B20-21 B29-31 B44-46 Large field/meadow areas (includes natural and cultural fields and meadows) >30 ha clx, clxi, clxii, clxiii, clxiv, clxv, clxvi, clxvii, clxviii, clxix . Field/meadow not Class 1 or 2 agricultural lands, and not being actively used for farming (i.e. no row cropping or CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Studies confirm: Presence of any combination of 5 or more of the listed species Í. Presence of one or more breeding pair of trumpeter swans is significant. Note: any wetland with breeding of 1 or more Black Terns or Yellow Rail is SWH Í. Area of the ELC ecosite is the SWH. Breeding surveys should be done in May-July when these species are actively nesting in wetland habitats. Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi SWHDSS cxlix Index #35 provides development effects and mitigation measures Field Studies confirm: Presence of nesting or breeding of 2 or more of the listed species.Í A field with 1 or more breeding Short-eared Owls is to be considered SWH. The area of SWH is the contiguous 40 Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite and North America. B60-62 B77-79 B93-95 B109-111 Habitat Criteria and Information Sources intensive hay or livestock pasturing in the last 5 years) Í. Field/meadow sites considered significant should have a history of longevity, either abandoned fields, mature hayfields and pasturelands that are at least 5 years or older. The Indicator bird species are area sensitive requiring larger Field/meadow areas than the common Field/meadow species. Information Sources Use Agricultural land classification maps with aerial photographs to determine the potential Fields/meadows that might be candidate sites. Ask local birders for location of Fields/meadows that support abundant and species rich populations of area-sensitive species. Reports and other information available from CAs. Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. Shrub/Early Successional Bird Breeding Habitat Rationale; This wildlife habitat Clay-colored Sparrow Field Sparrow Ruffed Grouse Eastern Kingbird All sparse shrub and shrub ecosites B09-10 B21-22 B31-32 B46-47 Large natural field areas succeeding to shrub and thicket habitats>30 ha in size. Shrub land or early successional fields, not class 1 or 2 agricultural lands, not being actively used for farming (i.e. no Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria ELC ecosite field areas. Conduct field investigations of the most likely areas in spring and early summer when birds are singing and defending their territories. Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi SWHDSS cxlix Index #32 provides development effects and mitigation measures Field Studies confirm: Presence of nesting or breeding of 2 or more of species listed Í. The area of the SWH is the contiguous ELC ecosite area. 41 Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite is declining throughout Ontario and North America. B62-63 B79-80 B95-96 B111-112 B134-135 Habitat Criteria and Information Sources row-cropping, haying or live-stock pasturing in the last 5 years) Í. Larger shrub thicket habitats (>30 ha) are most likely to support and sustain a diversity of these species clxxiii . Shrub and thicket habitat sites considered significant should have a history of longevity, either abandoned fields or pasturelands. Special Concern and All Special Concern and Rare Rare Wildlife (S1-S3, SH) plant Species and animal species. Lists of these Rationale: These species are species are tracked quite rare or have by the Natural All plant and animal element occurrences (EO). Older element occurrences were recorded prior to Information Sources Use agricultural land classification maps and recent aerial photographs to determine the amount of potential shrub and thicket habitats. Ask local birders for location of shrub and thicket habitats that support abundant and species rich populations of areasensitive species. Reports and other information available from CAs. Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. When an element occurrence is identified within a 1 or 10 km grid for a Special Concern or rare species; linking candidate habitat on the site to ELC Ecosites ccxx needs to be completed. Information Sources Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria Conduct field investigations of the most likely areas in spring and early summer when birds are singing and defending their territories Evaluation methods to follow “Bird and Bird Habitats: Guidelines for Wind Power Projects” ccxi SWHDSS cxlix Index #33 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Studies Confirm: Assessment/inventory of the site for the identified special concern or rare species needs to be completed during the time of year when the species is present or easily identifiable. Habitat form and function needs to be 42 Wildlife Species DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Ecosite experienced significant population declines in Ontario. Heritage Information Centre. Habitat Criteria and Information Sources GPS being Natural Heritage Information available, therefore Centre will have the Special location Concern and Provincially Rare information may (S1-S3, SH) species lists and lack accuracy element occurrences for these species. NHIC Website: Biodiversity Explorer https://www.biodiversityexpl orer.mnr.gov.on.ca/nhicWEB /mainSubmit.do Expert advice should be sought as many of the rare spp. have little information available about their requirements. Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria assessed from the assessment of vegetation types and an area of significant habitat that protects the rare or special concern species identified. The area of the habitat to the finest ELC scale that protects the habitat form and function is the SWH; this must be delineated through detailed field studies. SWHDSS cxlix Index #37 provides development effects and mitigation measures. 43 DRAFT February 2012 Eco-Region 3E 1.4 Animal Movement Corridors Animal Movement Corridors are elongated areas used by wildlife to move from one habitat to another. They are important to ensure genetic diversity in populations, to allow seasonal migration of animals (e.g. deer moving from summer to winter range) and to allow animals to move throughout their home range from feeding areas to cover areas. Animal movement corridors function at different scales often related to the size and home range of the animal. For example, short, narrow areas of natural habitat may function as a corridor between amphibian breeding areas and their summer range, while wider, longer corridors are needed to allow deer to travel from their winter habitat to their summer habitat. Identifying the most important corridors that provide connectivity across the landscape is challenging because of a lack of specific information on animal movements. There is also some uncertainty about the optimum width and mortality risks of corridors. Furthermore, a corridor may be beneficial for some species but detrimental to others. For example, narrow linear corridors may allow increased access for racoons, cats, and other predators. Also, narrow corridors dominated by edge habitat may encourage invasion by weedy generalist plants and opportunistic species of birds and mammals. Corridors often consist of naturally vegetated areas that run through more open or developed landscapes. However, sparsely vegetated areas can also function as corridors. For example, many species move freely through agricultural land to reach natural areas. Despite the difficulty of identifying exact movement corridors for all species, these landscape features are important to the long-term viability of certain wildlife populations. Animal Movement Corridors should only be identified as SWH where: A Confirmed or Candidate SWH has been identified by OMNR or the planning authority based on documented evidence of a habitat identified within these Criterion Schedules or the Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide. The identified wildlife habitats within Table 1.4.1 will have distinct passageways or rely on well defined natural features for movements between habitats required by the species to complete its life cycle. Table 1.4.1. Animal Movement Corridors Habitat SPECIES CANDIDATE SWH ELC Eco-sites Amphibian Movement Corridors Rationale; Movement corridors for amphibians moving from their Eastern Newt Blue-spotted Salamander Spotted Salamander Gray Treefrog Wood Frog Spring Peeper Boreal Chorus Frog Corridors may be found in all ecosites associated with water. Corridors will be determined based on identifying the significant breeding habitat CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Movement corridors between breeding habitat and summer habitat clxxiv, clxxv, clxxvi, clxxvii, clxxviii, clxxix, clxxx, clxxxi . Movement corridors must be determined when Amphibian breeding habitat is confirmed as Defining Criteria Field Studies must be conducted at the time of year when species are expected to be migrating or entering breeding sites (April-July). Corridors should consist of native vegetation, roadless 44 Habitat SPECIES DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Eco-sites terrestrial habitat to breeding habitat can be extremely important for local populations. Wood Frog Northern Leopard Frog Green Frog Mink Frog American Toad Four-toed Salamander for these species in Table 1.2.2 Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Sources SWH from Table 1.2.2 (Amphibian Breeding Habitat –Wetland) of this Schedule Í. Information Sources OMNR District Office. NHIC. EIS reports and other studies prepared by CAs Naturalist Clubs. Defining Criteria Cervid Movement Corridors Rationale: Corridors important for all species to be able to access seasonally important life-cycle habitats or to access new habitat for dispersing individuals by minimizing their Moose Corridors may be found in all treed ecosites. Movement corridor must be determined when Moose Aquatic Feeding Area and Mineral Lick Habitat are confirmed from Table 1.2.2 of this schedule. Í Corridors typically follow riparian areas, woodlots, areas of physical geography (ravines, or ridges). Corridors will be multi-functional i.e. these will function for any smaller mammal species as well. area, no gaps such as fields, waterways or bodies, and undeveloped areas are most significant cxlix Corridors should be at least 200m wide cxlix with gaps <20mcxlix and if following riparian area with at least 15m of vegetation on both sides of waterway cxlix. Shorter corridors are more significant than longer corridors; however amphibians must be able to get to and from their summer and breeding habitat cxlix. SWHDSS cxlix Index #40 provides development effects and mitigation measures Studies must be conducted at the time of year when moose are moving to mineral licks or aquatic feeding areas (May – July). Studies should include a description of surrounding forest matrix for determination of significance. Corridors that lead moose to MAFAs and mineral licks should remain intact. 45 Habitat SPECIES DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Eco-sites vulnerability while travelling. Furbearer Movement Corridor Rationale: Intact forest corridors are critical for movements within territories for hunting, breeding, and maintenance of populations. For habitat related to denning sites, a corridor to and from the denning site must be maintained as this habitat is extremely important for local populations and is rarely identified. Mink Marten Fisher Otter Canada Lynx All treed Ecosites adjacent to or within shoreline habitats. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Habitat Criteria and Information Sources Information Sources OMNR District Office. NHIC. EIS reports and other studies prepared by CAs. Naturalist Clubs. Mink and Otter den sites are typically found within a riparian area of a lake, river, stream or wetland. The den site will potentially have a movement corridor associated with it. Den sites of other furbearer species may be more associated with social, hunting, breeding or other behaviours. Defining Criteria SWHDSS cxlix Index #39 provides development effects and mitigation measures. Corridors with greater canopy coverage width having fewer gaps are more significant. Studies to confirm: Studies must be conducted at the time of year (March to June) when mink or otter are using the denning sites. Studies can be based on observation or from track and scat surveys. SWHDSS cxlix Index #31 provides development effects and mitigation measures. All den sites identified using Table 1.2.2 of this schedule under the habitat of Denning Sites for Mink, Otter, Marten Fisher and Eastern Wolf are to be considered for an animal movement corridor. Information Sources Local naturalists and landowners may know some locations. OMNR values information (NRVIS) may list known locations 46 Habitat SPECIES DRAFT February 2012 CANDIDATE SWH ELC Eco-sites Habitat Criteria and Information Sources OMNR Ecologist or Biologist may be aware of locations. Topographical Maps together with aerial photographs will help locate potential sites. Local trappers may know the location of prime denning sites and movement corridors. Eco-Region 3E CONFIRMED SWH Defining Criteria 47
