2021-June Coral Mountain Resort Draft EIR - Appendix D.1 - Biological Report
CORAL MOUNTAIN RESORT
DRAFT EIR
SCH# 2021020310
TECHNICAL APPENDICES
Biological Resources Assessment and
CVMSHCP Consistency Analysis
Appendix D.1
June 2021
May 2021
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT A ND
CVMSHCP CONSISTENCY ANALYSI S
WAVE AT CORAL MOUNTAIN DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CITY OF LA QUINTA
RIVERSIDE COUNTY , CALIFORNIA
May 2021
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT AND
CVMSHCP CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS
WAVE AT CORAL MOUN TAIN DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CITY OF LA QUINTA
RIVERSIDE COUNTY , CALIFORNIA
Prepared for:
Mr. Garret Simon
CM Wave Development, LLC
2440 Junction Place, Suite 200
Boulder, Colorado 80301
Prepared by:
LSA Associates, Inc.
3111 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Suite B109
Palm Springs, California 92262
(760) 237-0625
LSA Project No. CWV1901
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
LSA was retained by CM Wave Development, LLC to prepare a Biological Resources Assessment and
to conduct a Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) Consistency
Analysis. This report has been prepared for compliance with the California Environmental Quality
Act, the CVMSHCP, and the Federal and California Endangered Species Acts.
The study area lies within the planning boundaries of the CVMSHCP. The CVMSHCP provides take
coverage for covered species, which include both listed and non-listed species that are adequately
conserved by the CVMSHCP. To ensure adequate conservation of covered species, CVMSHCP
Conservation Areas provide habitat and other ecological elements. The study area does not lie
within a CVMSHCP Conservation Area.
The study area contains suitable habitat for the burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) and
other nesting birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the California Fish and Game
Code. A burrowing owl pre-construction survey will be required to ensure any direct impacts to this
species will be avoided. In addition, it is recommended that vegetation removal be conducted
between September 1 and January 15 (outside the general bird nesting season) to avoid impacts to
nesting birds. If vegetation cannot be removed outside the bird nesting season, a pre-construction
nesting bird survey by a qualified biologist is required prior to vegetation removal.
The study area contains suitable roosting and foraging habitat for multiple bat species. Suitable
roosting sites are present in native and non-native ornamental palms, rock outcrops associated with
Coral Mountain, and an abandoned adobe structure. Roosting bats were confirmed in the rock
outcrops during early-maternity season surveys performed in April 2021. Additional maternity-
season surveys will be performed in June 2021 to maximize the probability of detection of maternity
roosts for all bat species that may occur in the proposed project area and to gather more precise
data on numbers and species of bats in roosts identified during the April 2021 survey. If maternity
roosts are identified within the project area, the biologist will coordinate with the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to implement avoidance measures during the bat maternity
season in accordance with CDFW’s established standards. With implementation of this and other
mitigation measures, impacts to roosting bats will be less than significant.
At least one year prior to construction, a qualified bat biologist will conduct a habitat assessment
and acoustic surveys for roosting bats. If maternity roosts or hibernacula are found, the biologist will
coordinate with CDFW to implement avoidance measures where possible. If avoidance of the
roost(s) is not feasible, the biologist will prepare a site-specific bat avoidance and mitigation plan
and coordinate with CDFW. This avoidance and mitigation plan would include mitigation strategies
to minimize and/or mitigate adverse effects to bats, post-implementation monitoring, and
performance standards.
No potential jurisdictional waters regulated pursuant to the Federal Clean Water Act by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers or the Regional Water Quality Control Board, and no lake, rivers, or
streambeds regulated pursuant to the California Fish and Game Code by CDFW are present within
the study area.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................. i
TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................................. ii
Figures .............................................................................................................................................. ii
Appendices ....................................................................................................................................... ii
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 1
PROJECT DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................................... 1
METHODS ............................................................................................................................................... 1
Literature Review ............................................................................................................................. 1
Field Survey ...................................................................................................................................... 1
RESULTS .................................................................................................................................................. 3
Existing Site Conditions .................................................................................................................... 3
Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan ........................................................ 4
Special-Status Species ...................................................................................................................... 4
Critical Habitat ................................................................................................................................. 8
Jurisdictional Waters ........................................................................................................................ 8
IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................................................................... 8
Threatened and Endangered Species .............................................................................................. 8
Non-Listed Special-Interest Species ................................................................................................. 9
Critical Habitat ................................................................................................................................. 9
Jurisdictional Waters ...................................................................................................................... 10
Habitat Fragmentation and Wildlife Movement ........................................................................... 10
Local Policies and Ordinances ........................................................................................................ 10
MITIGATION MEASURES ....................................................................................................................... 10
CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ......................................................................................................................... 12
REFERENCES CITED ............................................................................................................................... 13
Figures
Figure 1: Regional and Project Location Map ......................................................................................... 2
Figure 2: Vegetation and Photograph Key Location Map ...................................................................... 4
Figure 3: Site Photographs ..................................................................................................................... 6
Appendices
A: PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED
B: SPECIAL-INTEREST SPECIES SUMMARY
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INTRODUCTION
LSA was retained by CM Wave Development, LLC to prepare a Biological Resources Assessment and
Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) Consistency Analysis. This
report evaluates the approximately 385-acre proposed Wave at Coral Mountain Development
Project (project) located in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California. Specifically, the
project lies south of 58th Avenue and directly west of Madison Street. The project study area is
depicted on the United States Geological Survey (USGS) La Quinta, Indio, Martinez Mountain, and
Valerie, California 7.5-minute topographic quadrangles in Sections 27 and 28, Township 6 South,
Range 7 East (Figure 1).
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The project proposes mixed-use residential, resort, and recreational development.
METHODS
Literature Review
A literature review was conducted to assist in determining the existence or potential occurrence of
special-interest plant and animal species within the study area and in the project vicinity. A records
search of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Natural Diversity Data Base (NDDB)
Rarefind 5 (2019), and California Native Plant Society’s Online Inventory of Rare and Endangered
Plants (California Native Plant Society [CNPS] v7-18) for the La Quinta, Indio, Martinez Mountain,
and Valerie, California USGS 7.5-minute quadrangles was conducted on August 16, 2019.
Additionally a subsequent literature search was conducted on April 27, 2021. A review of the Final
Recirculated CVMSHCP (CVAG 2007) was also conducted in order to determine CVMSHCP
consistency and conservation measures that apply to the proposed project, and to reference
vegetation types within the study area. Geographic Information System software was used to map
the project location, habitat types, land uses, etc.
Field Surveys
LSA Biologist Jodi Ross-Borrego conducted a general field survey within the study area on
September 11, 2019, from 8:00 am to 1:35 pm. Weather conditions consisted of clear skies,
temperatures ranging from 73 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit, and winds ranging from 3 to 5 miles per
hour. Additionally, a follow up general biological field survey was conducted on April 28, 2021 from
6:00 am to 12:40 p.m. Weather conditions consisted of clear skies, temperatures ranging from 58 to
89 degrees Fahrenheit, and winds ranging from 3 to 5 miles per hour. The entire study area was
surveyed on foot. Notes were taken on general site conditions, vegetation, and suitability of habitat
for various special-interest elements.
A bat habitat assessment was performed in November 2020 by LSA bat specialist Jill Carpenter, and
focused nighttime acoustic and emergence surveys were conducted by LSA biologists in April 2021.
The detailed results of the focused bat surveys are provided in a separate report. All plant and
animal species observed or otherwise detected during all field surveys were noted and are listed in
Appendix A. Appendix B summarizes the special-interest plant and animal species potentially
present within the study area.
SOURCE: USGS 7.5' Quad., La Quinta, CA (1980); Indio, CA (1972); Martinez Mtn, CA (1988); Valerie, CA (1972)
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FIGURE 1
The Wave at Coral MountainRegional and Project Location Map
0 1000 2000
FEET
LEGEND
Study Area
RiversideCounty
ÃÃ74
ÃÃ195
ÃÃ111
ÃÃ111
ÃÃ86
ProjectLocation
§¨¦10
Project Vicinity
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RESULTS
Existing Site Conditions
The study area is south of 58th Avenue and west of Madison Street. Other surrounding land uses
include residential development to the north and east, vacant land to the west, and settling ponds
to the south. The project falls within the boundaries of the CVMSHCP, as discussed in further detail
below.
Topography and Soils
The study area is situated on relatively flat land within elevations ranging from approximately 72
feet below mean sea level to 65 feet above mean sea level.
A mosaic of soils occurs within the study area and is mapped by the Soil Conservation Service
(Knecht 1980) as the following types:
CdC: Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes;
CpA: Coachella fine sand, 0 to 2 percent slopes;
CsA: Coachella fine sand, 0 to 2 percent slopes;
GaB: Gilman loamy fine sand, 0 to 5 percent slopes;
GbA: Gilman find sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes;
Ip: Indio fine sandy loam;
Ir: Indio fine sandy loam, wet;
Is: Indio very fine sandy loam;
It: Indio very fine sandy loam, wet;
MaB: Myoma fine sand, 0 to 5 percent slopes; and
RO: Rock outcrop.
Vegetation
Vegetation within the study area is best described as Desert Saltbush scrub, Tamarisk scrub, and
Mesquite Hummock (CVMSHCP 2007). Land is disturbed in southern and northeast portions of the
study area and a stand of blue palo verde (Parkinsonia florida) is present in the eastern portion of
the study area. Dominant species include fourwind saltbush (Atriplex canescens), bush seepweed
(Suaeda nigra), athel (Tamarix aphylla), and common Mediterranean grass (Schismus barbatus).
The majority of the study area was previously agricultural land. As a result, the Desert Saltbush
scrub is fairly disturbed throughout the study area.
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Wildlife
Common wildlife species observed within the study area during the field survey include common
raven (Corvus corax), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus),
and greater roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus).
Figure 2 shows vegetation and photograph key locations. Figure 3 shows site photographs. A
complete list of plant and wildlife species observed is provided in Appendix A.
Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
The CVMSHCP is a comprehensive, multi-jurisdictional habitat conservation plan focusing on
conservation of species and their associated habitats in the Coachella Valley region of Riverside
County. The overall goal of the CVMSHCP is to maintain and enhance biological diversity and
ecosystem processes within the region, while allowing for future economic growth. The CVMSHCP
covers 27 sensitive plant and wildlife species (Covered Species) as well as 27 natural communities.
Covered Species include both listed and non-listed species that are adequately conserved by the
CVMSHCP. The overall provisions for the plan are subdivided according to specific resource
conservation goals that have been organized according to geographic areas defined as Conservation
Areas.
The proposed project is within the boundaries of the CVMSHCP; however, it is not within any
conservation areas identified in the CVMSHCP.
Special-Status Species
This section discusses special-status species observed or potentially occurring within the limits of the
study area. Legal protection for special-interest species varies widely, from the comprehensive
protection extended to listed threatened/endangered species, to no legal interest at present. The
CDFW, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), local agencies, and special-interest groups, such as
the CNPS, publish watch lists of declining species. Species on watch lists can be included as part of
the special-interest species assessment. Species that are candidates for State and/or Federal listing
and species on watch lists are included in the special-interest species list. Inclusion of species
described in the special-interest species analysis is based on the following criteria:
Direct observation of the species or its sign in the study area or immediate vicinity during
previous biological studies;
Sighting by other qualified observers;
Record reported by the NDDB, published by the CDFW;
Presence or location information for specific species provided by private groups (e.g., CNPS);
and/or
Study area lies within known distribution of a given species and contains appropriate habitat.
LEGEND
Study Area
!Photo Locations
Vegetation
Desert Saltbush Scrub
Disturbed
Mesquite Hummock
Paloverde Stand
Tamarisk ScrubSOURCE: Bing Aerial (09/2017)
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FIGURE 2
The Wave at Coral MountainVegetation, Land Use, andPhotograph Key Location Map
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FIGURE 3
Site Photographs
The Wave at Coral Mountain
Photo1.Viewofdesertsaltbushscrubasseenfacingsouth.Photo 2.View of the proposed project site as seen facing
southeast.
Photo3.Viewofanaccessroadasseenfacingnorth.Photo 4.View of desert saltbush scrub as seen facing
northwest.
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The special-interest species analysis revealed 49 special-interest species with the potential to occur
within the limits of the study area. Appendix B lists these species with a data summary and
determination of the likelihood of each species occurring within the study area.
Threatened/Endangered Species
The following seven federally/State listed species were identified as potentially present (Appendix B)
in the project vicinity:
Coachella Valley milkvetch (Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae [CVMV]): Federally listed as
Endangered and CVMSHCP covered species;
Triple-ribbed milkvetch (Astragalus tricarinatus): Federally listed as Endangered and CVMSHCP
covered species;
Casey’s June beetle (Dinacoma caseyi): Federally listed as Endangered;
Desert pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius): Federally and State-listed as Endangered and CVMSHCP
covered species;
Desert slender salamander (Batrachoseps major aridus) Federally and State-listed as
Endangered;
Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard (Uma inornata): Federally listed as Threatened, State listed as
Endangered, and CVMSHCP covered species; and
Peninsular bighorn sheep (Ovis Canadensis nelsonii) (peninsular Distinct Population Segment):
Federally listed as Endangered, State listed as threatened, California Fully Protected Species, and
CVMSHCP covered species.
Habitat within the study area is considered unsuitable for six of the seven species identified above.
Marginally suitable habitat for CVMV was found to be present within the study area.
Non-Listed Special-Interest Species
Of the 42 other non-listed special-interest species identified and discussed in Appendix B, 18 species
are considered absent based on lack of suitable habitat, seven species are considered to have a low
probability of occurrence, seven species are considered to have a moderate probability of
occurrence, five species are considered to have a high probability of occurrence, and five species
were detected within the study area during field surveys. The following non-listed special-interest
species have a moderate to high probability to occur, or were detected, within the study area:
Slender cottonheads (Nemacaulis denudata var gracilis);
Flat-tailed horned lizard (Phryosoma macalli);
Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia);
Ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis);
Prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus);
Black-tailed gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura);
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Le Conte’s thrasher (Toxostoma lecontei);
California leaf-nosed bat (Macrotus californicus);
Western yellow bat (Lasiurus xanthinus);
Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis);
Pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus);
Western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis);
Pocketed free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops femorosaccus);
Big free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops macrotis);
Pallid San Diego pocket mouse (Chaetodipus fallax pallidus); and
Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus tereticaudus chlorus).
Nesting bird species, including special-interest species identified in Appendix B, with potential to
occur are protected by California Fish and Game Code Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3800, and by the
Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) (16 USC 703–711). These laws regulate the take, possession, or
destruction of the nest or eggs of any migratory bird or bird of prey. However, the USFWS has
recently determined that the MBTA should apply only to “… affirmative actions that have as their
purpose the taking or killing of migratory birds, their nests, or their eggs” and will not be applied to
incidental take of migratory birds pursuant to otherwise lawful activities.
Critical Habitat
The study area does not lie within federally designated critical habitat.
Jurisdictional Waters
No potential jurisdictional waters regulated pursuant to the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) or the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), and no
lake, rivers, or streambeds regulated pursuant to the California Fish and Game Code by the CDFW
are present within the limits of the proposed project.
IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Following is a discussion of potential disturbances and recommendations for avoidance,
minimization, and mitigation measures per applicable local, State, and Federal policy.
Threatened and Endangered Species
Coachella Valley Milkvetch
CVMV is a covered species under the CVMSHCP. The CVMSHCP does not require avoidance and
minimization measures for CVMV. Through participation in the CVMSHCP via payment of
development fees, the project would mitigate for any impacts to CVMV.
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Non-Listed Special-Interest Species
The 42 special-interest species identified in Appendix B as having a low to high probability of
occurrence in the study area have limited population distribution in Southern California and
development is further reducing their ranges and numbers. These species have no official State or
Federal protection status, but they merit consideration under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA). Due to the disturbed nature of the site, surrounding development, and through
compliance with the CVMSHCP, impacts from the project are anticipated to have a less than
significant effect on these non-listed special-interest species.
In addition, to ensure compliance with California Fish and Game Code and to avoid potential impacts
to nesting birds, it is recommended that the vegetation removal activities be conducted outside the
general bird nesting season (January 15 through August 31). If vegetation cannot be removed
outside the bird nesting season, a pre-construction nesting bird survey by a qualified biologist is
required prior to vegetation removal.
Burrowing Owl
A pre-construction burrowing owl survey would be required using an accepted protocol (as
determined by the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission in coordination with the permittees
and the wildlife agencies). Prior to construction, a qualified biologist will survey the construction
area and, as feasible, up to a 500-foot buffer outside the project limits for burrows that could be
used by burrowing owl. If a burrow is located, the biologist will determine whether an owl is present
in the burrow. If the burrow is determined to be occupied, the burrow will be flagged and a 160-foot
diameter buffer will be established during the non-breeding season or a 250-foot diameter buffer
during the breeding season. The buffer area will be staked and flagged. No development activities
will be permitted within the buffer until the young are no longer dependent on the burrow.
Bats
Early season nighttime acoustic and emergence surveys in April 2021 confirmed the presence of at
least eight bat species, including four with special status, within the study area. Additional
maternity-season surveys will be performed in June 2021 to maximize the probability of detection of
maternity roosts, which are native wildlife nursery sites, for all bat species that may occur in the
proposed project area and to gather more precise data on numbers and species of bats in roosts
identified during the April 2021 survey. If maternity roosts are identified within the project area, the
biologist will coordinate with the CDFW to implement avoidance measures during the bat maternity
season in accordance with CDFW’s established standards. No construction will occur within a 300-
foot buffer of maternity roost sites during the bat maternity season unless concurrence is received
from CDFW to reduce that buffer distance based upon the bat species present and the activities
occurring. Other mitigation measures include two-step tree removal protocols, minimization of light
overspill, and humane bat exclusion.
Critical Habitat
No federally designated critical habitat is present within the study area; therefore, there will be no
project-related effects to critical habitat.
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Jurisdictional Waters
No potential jurisdictional waters of the United States regulated by the USACE or RWQCB, or CDFW
jurisdictional lakes, rivers, or streams are present on the proposed project site. Thus, there will be
no project-related effects to jurisdictional waters.
Habitat Fragmentation and Wildlife Movement
Wildlife movement and habitat fragmentation are important issues in assessing effects to wildlife.
Habitat fragmentation occurs when a proposed action results in a single, unified habitat area being
divided into two or more areas such that the division isolates the two new areas from each other.
Isolation of habitat occurs when wildlife cannot move freely from one portion of the habitat to
another or from one habitat type to another. An example is the fragmentation of habitats within
and around “checkerboard” residential development. Habitat fragmentation can also occur when a
portion of one or more habitats is converted into another habitat, as when scrub habitats are
converted into annual grassland habitat because of frequent burning.
Because the study area does not lie within a CVMSHCP-designated wildlife corridor and the study
area is adjacent to residential development, the proposed project is not anticipated to have
significant impacts related to habitat fragmentation and regional wildlife movement.
Local Policies and Ordinances
With participation in the CVMSHCP, the project would not conflict with any local policies or
ordinances.
Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
The study area lies within the planning area of the CVMSHCP; however, it does not lie within a
Conservation Area identified in the CVMSHCP. The proposed project is subject to the requirements
of the CVMSHCP (e.g., development fees).
MITIGATION MEASURES
BIO-1: A burrowing owl clearance survey shall be performed by a qualified biologist not more than
30 days prior to any site disturbance (grubbing, grading, and construction). The pre -construction
survey is required to use accepted protocol (as determined CDFW). Prior to construction, a qualified
biologist will survey the construction area and an area up to a 500-feet outside the project limits for
burrows that could be used by burrowing owls. If the burrow is determined to be occupied, the burrow
will be flagged, and a 160-foot diameter buffer will be established during non-breeding season or a
250-foot diameter buffer during the breeding season. The buffer area will be staked and flagged. No
development activities will be permitted within the buffer until the young are no longer dependent
on the burrow.
If the burrow is unoccupied, the burrow will be made inaccessible to owls, and construction may
proceed. If either a nesting or escape burrow is occupied, owls shall be relocated pursuant to accepted
Wildlife Agency protocols. A burrow is assumed occupied if records indicate that, based on surveys
conducted following protocol, at least one burrowing owl has been observed occupying a burrow on
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site during the past three years. If there are no records for the site, surveys must be conducted to
determine, prior to construction, if burrowing owls are present. Determination of the appropriate
method of relocation, such as eviction/passive relocation or active relocation, shall be based on the
specific site conditions (e.g., distance to nearest suitable habitat and presence of burrows within that
habitat) in coordination with the Wildlife Agencies. Active relocation and eviction/passive relocation
require the preservation and maintenance of suitable burrowing owl habitat determined through
coordination with the Wildlife Agencies.
BIO-2: In June 2021, a qualified bat biologist will conduct a second round of focused nighttime surveys
for roosting bats at locations where suitable roosting habitat is identified. The nighttime survey will
include a combination of acoustic and exit count methods, and will take place during the bat maternity
season (March 15–August 31 in the Coachella Valley) to enable detection of maternity-roosting bats.
If maternity roosts are identified within the project area, the biologist will coordinate with CDFW to
implement avoidance measures during the bat maternity season in accordance with CDFW’s
established standards. No construction activities will occur within a 300-foot buffer of maternity roost
sites during the bat maternity season unless concurrence is received from CDFW to reduce that buffer
distance based upon the bat species present and the activities occurring.
BIO-3: Removal of trees (including palm trees) shall occur outside the maternity season (March 15 –
August 31 in the Coachella Valley), which coincides with the bird nesting season, to avoid the potential
for “take” of nonvolant (flightless) young. Trees and snags that have been identified as confirmed or
potential roost sites require a two-step removal process and the involvement of a bat biologist to
ensure that no roosting bats are killed during this activity. Consistent with CDFW protocols this two-
step removal shall occur over two consecutive days as follows: on Day 1, branches and limbs not
containing cavities, as identified by a qualified bat biologist, will be removed. On Day 2, the remainder
of the tree may be removed without supervision by a bat biologist. The disturbance caused by limb
removal, followed by an interval of one evening, will allow bats to safely abandon the roost.
BIO-4: Although no construction will occur at the rock outcrops where occupied bat roosts were
identified during the April 2021 surveys, bats roosting in that area could be subject to potential
adverse effects from project-related light overspill. To avoid permanent impacts to roosting bats from
the installation of new light fixtures associated with the proposed development, all lighting fixtures
shall have light shields or similar devices (e.g., dark sky compliant lighting) installed to minimize light
overspill on to Coral Mountain and surrounding open space.
BIO-5: A qualified bat biologist shall confirm the absence of roosting bats prior to any removal of the
adobe. If bats are found or if the absence of bats cannot be confirmed, the bat biologist will install or
directly supervise installation of humane eviction devices and exclusionary material to prevent bats
from roosting in the building. Implementation of the humane eviction/exclusions is typically
performed in the fall (September or October) preceding construction activity at each structure to
avoid impacts to hibernating bats during the winter months or during the maternity season (March
15–August 31 in the Coachella Valley), when nonvolant (flightless) young are present. Any humane
eviction/exclusion devices must be installed at least 10 days prior to the demolition of a structure
housing bats to allow sufficient time for the bats to vacate the roost(s).
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BIO-6: To ensure compliance with California Fish and Game Code and the MBTA and to avoid
potential impacts to nesting birds, vegetation removal activities shall be conducted outside the
general bird nesting season (January 15 through August 31). Any vegetation removal and/or
construction activities that occur during the nesting season will require that all suitable habitats be
thoroughly surveyed for the presence of nesting birds by a qualified biologist. Prior to commencement
of clearing, a qualified biologist shall conduct preconstruction surveys within 14 days and repeated 3
days prior to ground-disturbing activities. . If any active nests are detected a buffer of 300 feet (500
feet for raptors) around the nest adjacent to construction will be delineated, flagged, and avoided
until the nesting cycle is complete. The buffer may be modified and/or other recommendations
proposed as determined appropriate by the biologist to minimize impacts.
CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
According to Section 15130 of the CEQA Guidelines, “cumulative impacts” refers to incremental
effects of an individual project when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, current
projects, and probable future projects. Due to the relatively disturbed nature of the study area, its
proximity to residential development, and through compliance with the CVMSHCP, impacts are not
considered to be cumulatively significant.
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CVMSHCP C ONSISTENCY A NALYSIS
M AY 2021
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REFERENCES CITED
California Department of Fish and Game. March 2012. Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation.
The Resources Agency. Sacramento, California.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Natural Diversity Data Base. 2019. RareFind 5. The
Resources Agency, Sacramento, California.
California Fish and Game Code. http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/calawquery?codesection=fgc.
California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2019. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online
edition, v7-19). California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California.
http://cnps.site.aplus.net/cgi-bin/inv/inventory.cgi.
Coachella Valley Association of Governments. September 2007. Final Recirculated Coachella Valley
Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.
Knecht, A. 1980. Soil Survey, Coachella Valley Area, California, Coachella Valley Area. United States
Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. Washington, D.C.
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APPENDIX A
PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
CVMSHCP C ONSISTENCY A NALYSIS
M AY 2021
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SPECIES O BSERVED LIST
EUDICOT FLOWERING PLANTS
Scientific Name Common Name
Asteraceae Sunflower family
Dicoria canescens Bugseed
Isocoma acradenia Alkali goldenbush
Palafoxia arida var. arida Desert palafox
Pluchea sericea Arrowweed
Stephanomeria exigua Small wreath-plant
Bignoniaceae Bignonia family
Chilopsis linearis Desert willow
Boraginaceae Borage family
Cryptantha sp. Cryptantha
Tiquilia plicata Fanleaf crinklemat
Brassicaceae Mustard family
Brassica tournefortii* Sahara mustard
Chenopodiaceae Saltbush family
Atriplex canescens Fourwing saltbush
Salsola tragus* Russian thistle
Suaeda nigra Bush seepweed
Elaeagnaceae Oleaster family
Elaeagnus angustifolia* Russian olive
Fabaceae Pea family
Parkinsonia florida Blue palo verde
Prosopis glandulosa var. torreyana Honey mesquite
Prosopis sp.* Mesquite (non-native)
Tamaricaceae Tamarisk family
Tamarix aphylla* Athel
Tamarix ramosissima* Mediterranean tamarisk
Zygophyllaceace Caltrop family
Larrea tridentata Creosote bush
MONOCOTS FLOWERING PLANTS
Poaceae Grass family
Schismus barbatus* Common Mediterranean
grass
Scientific Name Common Name
REPTILES
Phrynosomatidae Phrynosomatid Lizards
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Scientific Name Common Name
Uta stansburiana Common side-blotched
lizard
Teiidae Whiptails
Aspidoscelis hyperythra Orange-throated whiptail
Scientific Name Common Name
BIRDS
Tytonidae Barn Owls
Tyto alba Barn owl
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers
Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-throated flycatcher
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
Caprimulgidae Goatsuckers
Chordeiles acutipennis Lesser nighthawk
Phalaenoptilus nuttallii Common poorwill
Apodidae Swifts
Chaetura vauxi Vaux’s swift
Cuculidae Cuckoos and Roadrunners
Geococcyx californianus Greater roadrunner
Corvidae Crows and Ravens
Corvus corax Common raven
Troglodytidae Wrens
Salpinctes obsoletus Rock wren
Thryomanes bewickii Bewick’s wren
Mimidae Mockingbirds and
Thrashers
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
Sturnidae Starlings
Sturnus vulgaris European starling
Fringillidae Finches
Haemorhous mexicanus House finch
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
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APPENDIX B
SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES SUMMARY
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Plants
Abronia villosa var.
aurita
Chaparral sand-
verbena
US: –
CA: 1B
Sandy areas (generally flats and
benches along washes) in
chaparral and coastal sage scrub,
and improbably in desert dunes
or other sandy areas, below
1,600 meters (5,300 feet)
elevation. In California, reported
from Riverside, San Diego,
Imperial, Los Angeles, and
Ventura Counties. Believed
extirpated from Orange County.
Also reported from Arizona and
Mexico (Baja California). Plants
reported from desert
communities are likely
misidentified.
Blooms mostly
March through
August
(annual or
perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(washes in chaparral and
coastal sage scrub) is
not present within the
study area.
Astragalus
lentiginosus var.
coachellae
Coachella Valley
milk-vetch
US: FE
CA: 1B
CVMSHCP: C
Sandy areas, typically in coarse
sands in active sand fields,
adjacent to dunes, along
roadsides in dune areas, or along
the margins of sandy washes, in
Sonoran Desert scrub at 60 to
655 meters (200 to 2,150 feet)
elevation. Known only from
Riverside County in the Coachella
Valley between Cabazon and
Indio, and in the Chuckwalla
Valley northeast of Desert
Center.
Blooms
February
through May
(annual or
perennial herb)
Low. Suitable habitat
(some coarse sand
areas) is present within
the study area.
Astragalus preussii
var. laxiflorus
Lancaster milk-
vetch
US: –
CA: 1B
Alkaline clay flats, gravelly or
sandy washes, and along draws
in gullied badlands, in chenopod
scrub below about 700 meters
(2,300 feet) elevation. Known in
California only from near
Lancaster and Edwards Air Force
Base in Los Angeles, Kern, and
San Bernardino Counties, and
from one historical occurrence
(1928) near La Quinta in
Riverside County. Also occurs in
Nevada and Arizona.
Blooms March
through May
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(clay flats, gravelly or
sandy washes, and along
draws in gullied
badlands, in chenopod
scrub) is not present
within the study area.
Astragalus
tricarinatus
Triple-ribbed milk-
vetch
US: FE
CA: 1B
CVMSHCP: C
Metamorphic rock outcrops
weathering into gravelly soil in
semi-desert chaparral, or
(probably as waifs) at the edges
of boulder-strewn desert washes
and adjacent slopes in rocky
incised canyons in Joshua tree
woodland and Sonoran Desert
Blooms
February
through May
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(metamorphic rock
outcrops) is not present
within the study area.
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
scrub; known from west edge of
desert at 450 to 1,200 meters
(1,500 to 3,900 feet) elevation in
Riverside and extreme southern
San Bernardino Counties.
Ayenia compacta
California ayenia
US: –
CA: 2B
Rocky canyons and sandy and
gravelly washes from 150 to
1,095 meters (500 to 3,600 feet)
elevation in desert scrub. In
California, occurs in Providence
Mountains, Eagle Mountains,
and west edge of Sonoran
Desert.
Blooms March
through April
(subshrub)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(rocky canyons and
sandy and gravelly
washes) is not present
within the study area.
Bursera
microphylla
Little-leaf elephant
tree
US: –
CA: 2B
Rocky slopes and washes in
Sonoran Desert scrub at 200 to
700 meters (600 to 2,300 feet)
elevation. In California, known
only from Riverside, Imperial,
and San Diego Counties.
Blooms June
through July
(deciduous tree)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(rocky slopes and
washes) is not present
within the study area.
Ditaxis claryana
Glandular ditaxis
US: –
CA: 2B
Sandy soils in creosote bush
scrub of the Sonoran and Mojave
deserts at 0 to 465 meters (0 to
1,500 feet) elevation. Imperial,
Riverside, and San Bernardino
Counties, and Arizona and
northern Mexico.
Blooms October
through March
(perennial herb)
Low. Suitable habitat
(sandy soils) is present
within the study area.
Ditaxis serrata var.
californica
California ditaxis
US: –
CA: 3.2
Sandy washes and alluvial fans in
Sonoran desert scrub at 30 to
1,000 meters (100 to 3,300 feet)
elevation. In California, known
from Imperial, Riverside, San
Bernardino, and San Diego
Counties. Also occurs in Mexico.
Blooms March
through
December
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(sandy washes and
alluvial fans) is not
present within the study
area.
Eriastrum
harwoodii
Harwood’s
eriastrum
US: –
CA: 1B
Desert dunes, 125 to 915 meters
(410 to 3,002 feet) elevation
(CNPS).
Blooms March
through June
(annual herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(desert dunes) is not
present within the study
area.
Leptosiphon
floribundus ssp.
hallii
Santa Rosa
Mountains
leptosiphon
US: –
CA: 1B
Sonoran desert scrub in desert
canyons at 900 to 1,280 meters
(2,950 to 4,190 feet) elevation.
Known only from Riverside and
San Diego Counties.
Blooms May
through July
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(Sonoran desert scrub) is
not present within the
study area.
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Marina orcuttii var.
orcuttii
California marina
US: –
CA: 1B
Rocky soils and gravelly hillsides
in pinyon and juniper woodlands,
Sonoran desert scrub, and
chaparral at 1,050 to 1,160
meters (3,400 to 3,800 feet)
elevation. In California, known
only from Riverside County.
Blooms May
through
October
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(rocky soils and gravelly
hillsides) is not present
within the study area.
Matelea parvifolia
Spear-leaf matelea
US: –
CA: 2B
Rocky ledges and slopes in
Mojavean and Sonoran desert
scrub at 430 to 1,095 meters
(1,400 to 3,600 feet) elevation. In
California, known only from
Riverside, San Bernardino, and
San Diego Counties.
Blooms March
through May
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(rocky ledges in
Mojavean and Sonoran
desert scrub) is not
present within the study
area.
Nemacaulis
denudata var.
gracilis
Slender
cottonheads
US: –
CA: 2B
Coastal or desert dunes, sandy
mesquite hummocks, or similar
sandy sites at -50 to 400 (560)
meters (-160 to 1,300 [1,800]
feet) elevation. Known from
Imperial, Riverside, San
Bernardino, and San Diego
Counties in California, and from
Arizona and Mexico.
Blooms mostly
late March to
mid-May
(annual herb)
Moderate. Suitable
habitat (sandy mesquite
hummocks) is present
within the study area.
Phaseolus filiformis
Slender-stem bean
US: –
CA: 2B
Annual or perennial vine in
Sonoran desert scrub found in
gravelly washes bordered by
Creosote bush-dominated rocky
slopes; 125 meters (410 feet)
elevation. Known only from one
site in California: Coachella
Valley, Riverside County.
Blooms April
(annual herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(gravelly washes
bordered by Creosote
bush-dominated rocky
slopes) is not present
within the study area.
Pseudorontium
cyathiferum
Deep Canyon
snapdragon
US: –
CA: 2B
Rocky sites in Sonoran Desert
scrub at 0 to 800 meters (0 to
2,600 feet) elevation. In
California, known only from the
Deep Canyon area of Riverside
County.
Blooms
February
through April
(annual herb)
Absent. The study area
is outside of the species
geographic range.
Selaginella
eremophila
Desert spike-moss
US: –
CA: 2B
Shaded sites in gravelly soils and
among rocks or in crevices from
200 to 900 (2,425?) meters (700
to 3,000 [8,000?] feet) elevation
in Sonoran desert scrub.
Reproductive
mostly in June
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(shaded sites in gravelly
soils and among rocks or
in crevices) is not
present within the study
area.
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Senna covesii
Coves’s cassia
US: –
CA: 2B
Dry, sandy desert washes and
slopes in Sonoran desert scrub at
200 to 1,070 meters (700 to
3,500 feet) elevation. In
California, known only from
Imperial, Riverside, San
Bernardino, and San Diego
Counties.
Blooms March
through June
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(dry, sandy desert
washes and slopes) is
not present within the
study area.
Stemodia
durantifolia
Purple stemodia
US: –
CA: 2B
Sonoran Desert scrub, mostly in
mesic sandy areas, at 180 to 300
meters (600 to 1,000 feet)
elevation. In California, known
from San Diego and possibly
Riverside Counties. Also occurs in
Arizona, Texas, Mexico, and
South America.
Blooms January
through
December
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(Sonoran Desert scrub,
mostly in mesic sandy
areas) is not present
within the study area.
Thelypteris
puberula var.
sonorensis
Sonoran maiden
fern
US: –
CA: 2B
Seeps and along streams in
meadows at 50 to 610 meters
(170 to 2,000 feet) elevation.
Known from western Riverside,
southwest San Bernardino, Santa
Barbara, and Los Angeles
Counties.
Blooms January
through
September
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(seeps and along
streams in meadows) is
not present within the
study area.
Xylorhiza cognata
Mecca aster
US: –
CA: 1B
CVMSHCP: C
Steep slopes of arid canyons in
sandstone and clay in Sonoran
desert scrub at 20 to 400 meters
(70 to 1,300 feet) elevation.
Known only from Riverside, San
Diego, and Imperial Counties,
California, principally in the Indio
and Mecca hills of Riverside
County.
Blooms January
through June
(perennial herb)
Absent. Suitable habitat
(steep slopes of arid
canyons in sandstone
and clay) is not present
within the study area.
Invertebrates
Dinacoma caseyi
Casey’s June
beetle
US: FE
CA: SA
Associated with alluvial
sediments, typically in Carsitas
gravelly sand (CdC), riverwash, or
possibly Carsitas cobbly sand
(ChC) of broad, gently sloping
alluvial fans at the base of the
Santa Rosa Mountains. Known
distribution is an area of less
than 324 hectares (800 acres) in
southern Palm Springs within the
Palm Canyon alluvial floodplain
and eastward to East Palm
Canyon Drive.
Spring (late
March through
June)
Absent. The study area
is outside of the species
known geographic
range.
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Macrobaenetes
valgum
Coachella giant
sand treader
cricket
US: –
CA: SA
CVMSHCP: C
Wind-swept sand dune ridges,
spring-dampened sandy areas.
Restricted to Coachella Valley.
Absent. Suitable habitat
(Wind-swept sand dune
ridges, spring-dampened
sandy areas) is not
present within the study
area.
Oliarces clara
Cheeseweed moth
lacewing
US: –
CA: SA
Associated with creosote bush
(Larrea tridentata) in desert
scrub. Known in California from
Imperial, Riverside, and San
Bernardino Counties. This species
is rarely observed in the field due
to the short flight season of
adults (up to 3 or 4 days) and the
indeterminate timing of adult
emergence.
Low. Suitable habitat
(creosote bush) is
present within the study
area.
Fish
Cyprinodon
macularius
Desert pupfish
US: FE
CA: SE
CVMSHCP: C
Desert backwater areas, springs,
streams, and pools. In California,
found in the Salton Sea and some
of its tributaries (San Felipe
Creek, San Sebastian Marsh, and
Salt Creek) in Riverside and
Imperial Counties.
Absent. Suitable habitat
(desert backwater areas,
springs, streams, and
pools) is not present
within the study area.
Amphibians
Batrachoseps
major aridus
Desert slender
salamander
US: FE
CA: SE
Inhabits steep-walled desert
canyons with permanent water
seeping from fractured bedrock.
Known from only two canyons
the Santa Rosa Mountains, in the
Coachella Valley of Riverside
County.
Active year-
round (peak
possibly
February to
April).
Absent. Suitable habitat
(steep-walled desert
canyons with permanent
water seeps) is not
present within the study
area.
Reptiles
Phrynosoma mcalli
Flat-tailed horned
lizard
US: –
CA: SSC
CVMSHCP: C
Fine sand in desert washes and
flats with vegetative cover and
ants, generally below 180 meters
(600 feet) elevation in Riverside,
San Diego, and Imperial
Counties.
May be active
year-round in
mild weather,
but peak
activity occurs
in spring, early
summer, and
fall.
Moderate. Suitable
habitat (fine sand in flats
with vegetative cover) is
present within the study
area.
Uma inornata
Coachella Valley
fringe-toed lizard
US: FT
CA: SE
CVMSHCP: C
Fine, loose, windblown sand
(dunes), interspersed with
hardpan and widely spaced
desert shrubs; known only from
the Coachella Valley.
April through
October (May is
peak).
Absent. Suitable habitat
(Fine, loose, windblown
sand [dunes],
interspersed with
hardpan) is not present
within the study area.
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Birds
Athene cunicularia
(burrow sites)
Burrowing owl
US: –
CA: SSC
(breeding)
CVMSHCP: C
Open country in much of North
and South America. Usually
occupies ground squirrel burrows
in open, dry grasslands,
agricultural and range lands,
railroad rights-of-way, and
margins of highways, golf
courses, and airports. Often
utilizes man-made structures,
such as earthen berms, cement
culverts, cement, asphalt, rock,
or wood debris piles. They avoid
thick, tall vegetation, brush, and
trees, but may occur in areas
where brush or tree cover is less
than 30 percent.
Year-round High. Suitable habitat
(ground squirrel
burrows) is present
within the study area.
Buteo regalis
(wintering)
Ferruginous hawk
US: –
CA: SA
Forages in open fields, grasslands
and agricultural areas, sagebrush
flats, desert scrub, fringes of
pinyon-juniper habitats, and
other open country in western
North America. Not known to
breed in California.
Mid-September
through mid-
April
Moderate. Suitable
foraging habitat (open
desert scrub habitat) is
present within the study
area.
Falco mexicanus
(nesting)
Prairie falcon
US: –
CA: SA
Open country in much of North
America. Nests in cliffs or rocky
outcrops; forages in open arid
valleys and agricultural fields.
Rare in southwestern California.
Year-round
diurnal
Moderate. Suitable
foraging habitat (open
arid valley) is present
within the study area.
Polioptila melanura
Black-tailed
gnatcatcher
US: –
CA: SA
Nests in wooded desert wash
habitat containing mesquite,
palo verde, ironwood, and
acacia. May also occur in areas
with salt cedar, especially when
adjacent to native wooded
desert wash habitat. Also occurs
in desert scrub habitat in winter.
High. Suitable nesting
habitat (mesquite
hummocks and salt
cedar [tamarisk]) is
present within the study
area.
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W AVE AT C ORAL M OUNTAIN D EVELOPMENT P ROJECT
C ITY OF L A Q UINTA , C ALIFORNIA
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Pyrocephalus
rubinus
(nesting)
Vermilion
flycatcher
US: –
CA: SSC
(breeding)
A rare, local, year-long resident
along the Colorado River,
especially in vicinity of Blythe,
Riverside County. Sporadic
breeder in desert oases west and
north to Morongo Valley and the
Mojave Narrows, San Bernardino
County. Formerly bred in coastal
San Diego County. Nesters
inhabit cottonwood, willow,
mesquite, and other vegetation
in desert riparian habitat
adjacent to irrigated fields,
irrigation ditches, pastures, and
other open, mesic areas. Rare fall
and winter visitor throughout the
lowlands of Southern California
from Santa Barbara and Inyo
Counties south. Formerly much
more common and widespread,
but has disappeared entirely
from Imperial and Coachella
Valleys.
Fall or winter
visitor or rare
and local
breeder
Absent. Suitable habitat
(desert oases) is not
present within the study
area.
Toxostoma crissale
Crissal thrasher
US: –
CA: SSC
(year round)
CVMSHCP: C
Dense thickets of shrubs or low
trees in desert riparian and
desert wash habitats.
Southeastern California to Texas
and northern Mexico.
Year-round Low. Suitable habitat
(Dense thickets of
shrubs) is present within
the study area.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
CVMSHCP C ONSISTENCY A NALYSIS
M AY 2021
W AVE AT C ORAL M OUNTAIN D EVELOPMENT P ROJECT
C ITY OF L A Q UINTA , C ALIFORNIA
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Toxostoma lecontei
Le Conte’s
thrasher
US: –
CA: SA
CVMSHCP: C
Inhabits sparsely vegetated desert
flats, dunes, alluvial fans, or gently
rolling hills having a high
proportion of saltbush (Atriplex
spp.) or cholla (Cylindropuntia
spp.), often occurring along small
washes or sand dunes. Prefers
dense thorny shrubs (most often
saltbush or cholla) for nesting.
Uncommon and local resident in
low desert scrub throughout most
of the Mojave Desert, extending
up into the southwestern corner
of the San Joaquin Valley.
Breeding range in California
extends from these areas into
eastern Mojave, north into the
Owens Valley and south into the
lower Colorado Desert and
eastern Mojave. Only the San
Joaquin Valley population of this
species is considered a Bureau of
Land Management Sensitive
Species or California Species of
Concern.
Year-round High. Suitable habitat
(sparsely vegetated
desert flat having a high
proportion of saltbush
[Atriplex spp.]) is
present within the study
area.
Mammals
Antrozous pallidus
Pallid bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Roosts in crevices in rocky
outcrops and cliffs, caves, mines,
hollows or cavities of large trees,
and anthropogenic structures
such as bridges and buildings;
may also roost near the ground
in rock piles. Foraging habitat
includes grassland, open scrub,
open forest, and gravel roads.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Detected. Suitable trees
and rock outcrops for
day roosting present in
study area. Suitable
foraging habitat in open
desert scrub. Visually
observed emerging from
roosts in rock outcrops
in the study area, as well
as foraging in palo verde
stands at the western
portion of the study
area.
Eumops perotis
californicus
Western mastiff
bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Occurs in many open, semi-arid
to arid habitats, including conifer
and deciduous woodlands,
coastal scrub, grasslands,
chaparral, etc.; roosts in crevices
in vertical cliff faces, high
buildings, and tunnels, and
travels widely when foraging.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Detected. Suitable
roosting present in rocky
outcrops within study
area. Suitable foraging
habitat present.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
CVMSHCP C ONSISTENCY A NALYSIS
M AY 2021
W AVE AT C ORAL M OUNTAIN D EVELOPMENT P ROJECT
C ITY OF L A Q UINTA , C ALIFORNIA
P:\CWV1901\BRA\May 2021\CWV1901_BRA_050721_revised.docx (05/07/21) B-9
Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Lasiurus blossevillii
Western red bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Typically solitary, but sometime
found in small groups. Roosts in
the foliage of broad-leafed trees
or shrubs within streams or
fields, in orchards, and
occasionally urban areas;
commonly roosts in mature
cottonwoods and sycamores.
Also documented roosting in
mature eucalyptus trees and
palm trees. Strongly associated
with riparian corridors, but has
also been observed in desert
scrub.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Low. Typically more
associated with riparian
habitats, but has been
documented in desert
scrub habitats. May
occur in study area.
Lasiurus cinereus
Hoary bat
US: –
CA: SA
Solitary. Roosts in the foliage of
coniferous, deciduous, and
evergreen trees and shrubs,
often at the edge of a clearing.
Typically roosts near the ends of
branches approximately 3–12
meters above the ground.
Migratory wintering sites have
not been well documented, and
specific migration routes are not
known
Primarily fall,
winter, and
spring;
nocturnal
Low. Suitable large trees
present for day roosting,
including athel (Tamarix
aphylla). Unlikely to be
present during the
summer months. May
forage in study area.
Lasiurus xanthinus
Western yellow
bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Found mostly in desert and
desert riparian areas of the
southwest U.S., but also
expanding its range with the
increased usage of native and
non-native ornamental palms in
landscaping. Individuals typically
roost amid dead fronds of palms
in desert oases, but have also
been documented roosting in
cottonwood trees. Forages over
many habitats.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Detected. Native and
non-native ornamental
palms surrounding the
study area could provide
suitable roosting
habitat. Suitable
foraging habitat is also
found within the study
area.
Myotis yumanensis
Yuma myotis
US: –
CA: SA
Roosts in crevices within bridges,
buildings, culverts, cliff crevices,
caves, mines, and trees, typically
near a perennial water source.
Also documented roosting in
swallows nests.
Year-round;
nocturnal
High. Suitable trees for
day roosting present.
Crevices in adobe
building are also suitable
for roosting. May forage
over open water in golf
courses and water
impoundments
immediately adjacent to
the study area.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
CVMSHCP C ONSISTENCY A NALYSIS
M AY 2021
W AVE AT C ORAL M OUNTAIN D EVELOPMENT P ROJECT
C ITY OF L A Q UINTA , C ALIFORNIA
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Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Macrotus
californicus
California leaf-
nosed bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Day roosts primarily in caves and
mines, but occasionally roosts in
anthropogenic structures such as
bridges. Foraging habitat is
predominantly in desert washes
containing palo verde, ironwood,
or smoke trees.
Year-round;
nocturnal
High. Suitable roosting
present in rocky
outcrops within study
area. Known roosting
sites in project vicinity.
Suitable foraging habitat
present.
Nyctinomops
femorosaccus
Pocketed free-
tailed bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Usually associated with cliffs,
rock outcrops, or slopes. May
roost in buildings (including roof
tiles) or caves. Rare in California,
where it is found in Riverside,
San Diego, Imperial and possibly
Los Angeles Counties. More
common in Mexico.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Detected. Suitable rock
outcrops for day
roosting present in rocky
outcrops within study
area. Heard foraging
over study area.
Nyctinomops
macrotis
Big free-tailed bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Roosts mainly in crevices in cliffs,
although there is some
documentation of roosting in
buildings, caves, and tree
cavities. Found in desert shrub,
woodlands, and evergreen
forests.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Moderate. Suitable rock
outcrops for day
roosting present. May
forage in study area.
Chaetodipus fallax
pallidus
Pallid San Diego
pocket mouse
US: –
CA: SSC
Found in sandy herbaceous
areas, usually associated with
rocks or coarse gravel in desert
wash, desert scrub, desert
succulent scrub, pinyon-juniper
woodlands, etc. in desert border
areas of Southern California into
Mexico.
Nocturnal,
active year-
round
Moderate. Suitable
habitat (sandy
herbaceous areas) is
found within the study
area.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
CVMSHCP C ONSISTENCY A NALYSIS
M AY 2021
W AVE AT C ORAL M OUNTAIN D EVELOPMENT P ROJECT
C ITY OF L A Q UINTA , C ALIFORNIA
P:\CWV1901\BRA\May 2021\CWV1901_BRA_050721_revised.docx (05/07/21) B-11
Special-Status Species Summary
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Perognathus
longimembris
bangsii
Palm Springs
pocket mouse
US: –
CA: SSC
Primary habitat in the Coachella
Valley is dunes and mesquite
hummocks associated with
honey mesquite (Prosopis
glandulosa var. torreyana) and,
to a lesser extent, dunes and
hummocks associated with
creosote (Larrea tridentata) or
other vegetation. Its range in the
Coachella Valley extends from
Joshua Tree National Park
southward, west to San Gorgonio
Pass, and south to Borrego
Springs and the east side of San
Felipe Narrows, in Riverside, San
Diego, and Imperial Counties.
Results of recent morphological
and genetic studies indicate that
this species also ranges
northward at least to Hinkley
Valley and Death Valley in San
Bernardino County.
Spring through
fall
Low. Although suitable
habitat (mesquite
hummocks associated
with honey mesquite
(Prosopis glandulosa
var. torreyana) is found
within the study area,
these areas are limited
in size and isolated
within the study area.
Xerospermophilus
tereticaudus
chlorus
Palm Springs
round-tailed
ground squirrel
US: –
CA: SSC
CVMSHCP: C
Desert succulent scrub, desert
wash, desert scrub, alkali scrub;
will burrow in man-made levees;
prefers open, flat, grassy areas in
fine textured, sandy soil.
Restricted to Coachella Valley.
February
through August
(hibernates
September
through
January)
Moderate. Suitable
habitat (alkali scrub
associated with fine
textured, sandy soil) is
found within the study
area.
Taxidea taxus
American badger
US: –
CA: SSC
Primary habitat requirements
seem to be sufficient food and
friable soils in relatively open
uncultivated ground in
grasslands, woodlands, and
desert. Widely distributed in
North America.
Year-round Low. Suitable habitat
(friable soils) is found
within the study area.
Ovis canadensis
nelsonii (peninsular
Distinct Population
Segment)
Peninsular bighorn
sheep
US: FE
CA: ST/CFP
CVMSHCP: C
Occurs on open desert slopes
below 1,220 meters (4,000 feet)
elevation from San Gorgonio
Pass south into Mexico; optimal
habitat includes steep-walled
canyons and ridges bisected by
rocky or sandy washes, with
available water.
Absent. Suitable habitat
(steep-walled canyons
and ridges bisected by
rocky or sandy washes)
is not present. within
the study area
LEGEND
US: Federal Classifications
– No applicable classification
FE Taxa listed as Endangered.
FT Taxa listed as Threatened.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESSMENT AND
CVMSHCP C ONSISTENCY A NALYSIS
M AY 2021
W AVE AT C ORAL M OUNTAIN D EVELOPMENT P ROJECT
C ITY OF L A Q UINTA , C ALIFORNIA
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CA: State Classifications
SE Taxa State-listed as Endangered.
ST Taxa State-listed as Threatened.
SSC California Species of Special Concern. Refers to animals with vulnerable or seriously declining populations.
CF
P
California Fully Protected. Refers to animals protected from take under Fish and Game Code Sections 3511, 4700, 5050, and
5515.
SA Special Animal. Refers to any other animal monitored by the Natural Diversity Data Base, regardless of its legal or protection
status.
1B California Rare Plant Rank 1B: Rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere.
2B California Rare Plant Rank 2B: Rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere.
3 California Rare Plant Rank 3: A review list of plants about which more information is needed.
California Rare Plant Rank Extensions
0.2 Fairly endangered in California (20 to 80% occurrences threatened).
CVMSHCP: Coachella Valley MSHCP Status
C Species is adequately conserved under the CVMSHCP.