ROSEMONT PROJECT 2011 BAT ROOST SURVEYS

Transcription

1 Lesser long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae) Adit R47 Authors: Debbie C. Buecher, M.S. BUECHER BIOLOGICAL CONSULTING Ronnie Sidner, Ph.D. ECOLOGICAL CONSULTING Amanda L. Best, B.S. Gabrielle F. Diamond, M.S East Paradise Falls Drive Tucson, Arizona (520) February 3, 2012 Project No B Task 300

2 EMO IT (-4-0P, U. Memorandum To: CC: From: Bev Everson Chris Garrett Kathy Arnold Doc #: 022/ Subject: Transmittal Various Reports Date: March 29, 2012 Rosemont Copper is having delivered via courier, the following materials in hard copy and cd format. Santa Rita Utility Line Reports/Addendums, three (3) hard copies of each report for the Forest Service and two (2) hard copies of each to SWCA as well as one (1) cd of all reports dated March 19, 2012: Addendum to the Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination for Rosemont's Santa Rita Road Utility Line: Approximately 49.7 Acres along Corto, Country Club, and Dawson Roads, Pima County, Arizona, dated March 15, 2012 by WestLand Resources, Inc. Revised Figures for Pima Pineapple Cactus Survey: Proposed Rosemont Project Santa Rita Road Alignment Report: Approximately 49.7 Acres along Corto, Country Club, and Dawson Roads, Pima County, Arizona, dated March 15, 2012 by Westland Resources, Inc. Revised Addendum to the Rosemont Mine State-Protected Plant and Noxious Weed Inventory on ASLD Lands East of Sahuarita, Pima County, Arizona Report: Approximately 42.4 Acres along Corto, Country Club, and Dawson Roads, dated March 13, 2012 by Westland Resources, Inc. Addendum to the Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination for Rosemont's Santa Rita Road Utility Line: 38 Acres near the Helvetia Townsite, Pima County, Arizona, dated March 13, 2012 by WestLand Resources, Inc. Letter to Rosemont Copper Company for Revised ASLD Report and PPC Survey Acreage, dated March 19, 2012 by WestLand Resources, Inc. Updated biological survey inforamtion, three (3) hard copies of each report for the Forest Service and two (2) hard copies of each to SWCA as well as one (1) cd for each: Rosemont Project, 2011 Bat Roost Surveys, dated February 3, 2012 by WestLand Resources. Finally Rosemont is providing one copy each of the Air Permit Application amendment as accepted by ADEQ on March 23, Disk copies are included on the back cover of each amendment. Amendment to: Application for a Class II Permit and Emission Inventory 'formation Rosemont Copper Project Southeastern Arizona, dated March 19, 2012 by JBR Environmental Consultants, Inc.

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND SURVEY METHODS RESULTS Features Surveyed within the Rosemont Project Footprint Features Surveyed along the Potential Water Utility Corridor Features Surveyed within the Rosemont Holdings Outside the Project Footprint Features Surveyed outside the Rosemont Holdings DISCUSSION REFERENCES CITED TABLES Table 1. Mines evaluated and survey methods used in Table 2. Microclimate loggers deployed in bat roosts in bat roosts in abandoned mines in Table 3. Bat Species observed during 2011 surveys on Rosemont Mine Company and adjacent Coronado National Forest Service property... 7 Table 4. Summary of microclimate conditions recorded in roosts over 2011 field season Table 5. Bat Roost Survey Findings Summary (2006, 2009, 2009, 2010, and 2011) FIGURES (Figures 1-6 follow text) Figure 1. Vicinity Map Figure 2. Known Major Roost Sties of Lesser Long-nosed Bats in Arizona Figure 3. Overview of Surveyed Mine Features Figure 4. Surveyed Mine Features - Helena Mine Complex Figure 5. Surveyed Mine Features Along Proposed Project Utility Corridor Figure 6. Surveyed Mine Features Within Project Footprint and Along Sycamore and Wasp Canyons Figure 7. Adit 38 summer temperature and relative humidity... 9 Figure 8. Adit 38 winter temperatures and relative humidity Figure 9. Adit R46 left main passage summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 10. Adit R46 left branch main passage winter temperature and relative humidity Figure 11. Adit R47 above large guano pile summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 12. Adit R47A Choero dome winter temperature and relative humidity Figure 13. Helena Mine R37A back logger summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 14. Helena Mine R37A mid logger summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 15. Helena Mine R37A front logger winter temperature and relative humidity WestLand Resources, Inc. ii

4 Figure 16. Helena Mine R38A bottom logger summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 17. Helena Mine R38A logger above pit summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 18. Helena Mine R38A back logger summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 19. Helena Mine R38A front logger summer temperature and relative humidity Figure 20. Helena Mine R38A javelina room winter temperature and relative humidity Figure 21. Adit R38A back joint winter temperature and relative humidity Figure 22. Adit R38A above pit winter temperature and relative humidity APPENDICES Appendix A. Appendix B. US Fish and Wildlife Service White-Nose Syndrome Decontamination Protocol Selected Photographs WestLand Resources, Inc. iii

5 1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND The Rosemont Holdings encompass patented and unpatented claims and fee lands within privately owned, USDA Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management lands on the northeast side of the Santa Rita Mountain Range (Figure 1). WestLand Resources, Inc. (WestLand), visited thirty-nine (39) features within the Rosemont Holdings and vicinity to monitor their use as bat roosts. Studies of the use and distribution of lesser long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae), listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, and other bat species in the Rosemont Holdings and vicinity were undertaken by WestLand with initial site visits in 2006 of mining features within the Rosemont Holdings. Ultrasonic acoustic survey investigations were conducted in 2007 and ultrasonic acoustic surveys and mining feature investigations along with wide-ranging surveys for foraging resources were conducted in 2008 (WestLand 2009a and 2009b). Acoustic, infrared, and roost site surveys to date confirm that the Rosemont Holdings support L. yerbabuenae foraging resources and dayroost sites (WestLand 2009b, 2010, and 2011). In addition to the L. yerbabuenae, at least ten other bat species have been recorded from the area, including the nectar-feeding Mexican long-tongued bat (Choeronycteris mexicana) and nine species of insectivorous bats. In 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011, a total of 157 potential roost sites within the Rosemont Holdings and in the surrounding region were evaluated (WestLand 2009b, 2010, and 2011). L. yerbabuenae was found in small numbers at two sites on the Rosemont Holdings (Chicago Mine [Adit 11] and Adit R2), only one of which is within the proposed Rosemont Project impact area (Adit R2) (WestLand 2009b). L. yerbabuenae were also found at the Helena Mine Complex on Forest Service lands in Mulberry Canyon north of the project area (WestLand 2010 and 2011, Figure 2). This feature was confirmed to be a L. yerbabuenae roost site of regional importance in 2010 with approximately 5,000 bats (WestLand 2010). In 2010, WestLand conducted internal and emergence surveys and collected microclimate data at a subset of roost sites surveyed in 2009 to further our understanding of these roosts sites (WestLand 2011). The features surveyed in 0210 were also surveyed as part of the 2011 survey effort. There are three known L. yerbabuenae maternity roosts and numerous known post-maternity roosts in Arizona, including the Helena Mine (Figure 2). Surveys in 2011 focused on the mine features of greatest interest to gain additional information about their use as bat roosts based on prior assessments and investigate sites not evaluated previously. The survey data collected in 2011 concentrates on two main areas: 1) compilation of information on roost site characteristics, and 2) collection of data on the numbers of bats using these features. Roost site characterization included the installation and maintenance of temperature and relative humidity data loggers, when possible. Exit (emergence) surveys to count the bats as they emerge to forage in the evening provided valuable information on the numbers of bats using these features and the season of use. Knowledge of population size is important in quantifying potential impacts and possible mitigation proposals. This report summarizes the results of the 2011 bat roost surveys and is presented in five sections: Section 1 Section 2 (Introduction) introduces the document and outlines the document s organization. (Survey Methods) describes the methods used during the 2011 bat roost surveys. WestLand Resources, Inc. 1

6 Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 (Results) describes the results of the 2011 bat roost surveys. (Discussion) provides a summary and discussion of 2011 survey findings. (References) provides a list of references that were used for this work. WestLand Resources, Inc. 2

7 2. SURVEY METHODS In 2011, data was collected at 25 mine features that had been previously used by bats or had evidence bat use based on previous surveys and 14 mine features that had not been previously surveyed, but are mapped on the Helvetia USGS 7.5-minute series quadrangle as mining features (Figure 3). Features surveyed in 2011 included the Helena Mine Complex (Figure 4), features that occur along the proposed project utility corridor (Figure 5), and features that occur within the proposed mine footprint (Figure 6). Mine features located along Sycamore and Wasp Canyons that were not previously evaluated are shown in Figure 6. We conducted 12 field trips between May and November to 39 features on the Rosemont Holdings and adjacent Coronado National Forest (Figure 3 and Table 1). This included entering mine features to search for bats or evidence of bats, such as bone material from dead bats, insectivorous bat fecal material (guano), nectar bat fecal material (splatter), insect debris below roost sites, and staining on walls or ceilings from body oils of bats. Exit (emergence) counts were also conducted on five nights at multiple features known to be used by bats based on previous survey findings. We utilized night-vision video cameras, acoustic detectors, and night-vision goggles to estimate the number of bats exiting the roosts. Internal surveys at the cluster of mine features located near Gunsight Pass along the proposed project utility corridor were conducted using mist nets to trap the bats in each mine. This allowed surveyors to isolate animals roosting within each feature to reduce the chance of double counting individuals that may have escaped and moved into a nearby roost. Table 1. Mines evaluated and survey methods used in Feature Number Date(s) Visited Survey Conducted Features Previously Surveyed by WestLand (25) Chicago Mine (9) 15-July Internal Survey 17 (formerly F) 14-July Internal Survey 33 (formerly P) 14-July Internal Survey 38 (formerly S) 4-May, 28-Aug, 12-Nov Microclimate data collection Emergence Survey 39 (formerly S1) 28-Aug Emergence Survey 40 (formerly T) 14-July Internal Survey 49 (formerly AC) 15-July Internal Survey 59 (formerly AL) 15-July Internal Survey 62 (formerly AO) 15-July, 26-July Internal Survey R2 15-July, 26-July Internal Survey R8 14-July Internal Survey WestLand Resources, Inc. 3

8 Table 1. Mines evaluated and survey methods used in Feature Number Date(s) Visited Survey Conducted R9 14-July Internal Survey R10 14-July Internal Survey R37A (Helena Mine) R37B (Helena Mine) 2-May, 26-Aug, 15-Sept, 18-Nov 2-May, 26-Aug, 15-Sept, 18-Nov Microclimate data collection Emergence Surveys (2) Microclimate data collection Emergence Surveys (2) R37C (Helena Mine) 2-May, 18-Nov Microclimate data collection R38A (Helena Mine) R38B (Helena Mine) 2-May, 26-Aug, 15-Sept, 18-Nov 2-May, 26-Aug, 15-Sept, 18-Nov Microclimate data collection Emergence Surveys (2) Microclimate data collection Emergence Surveys (2) R38C (Helena Mine) 2-May, 18-Nov Microclimate data collection R44 14-July Internal Survey R46 R47 R49 R54 R55 4-May, 14-July, 29-Aug, 12-Nov 4-May, 14-July, 29-Aug, 12-Nov 14-July, 1-Sept 14-July, 1-Sept 14-July, 1-Sept Microclimate data collection Emergence Survey Microclimate data collection Internal Survey Emergence Survey Internal Survey Emergence Survey Internal Survey Emergence Survey Internal Survey Emergence Survey Features Surveyed for the First Time by WestLand in 2011 (14) DR01 26-July Internal Survey DR02 26-July Internal Survey DR03 26-July Internal Survey DR04 26-July Internal Survey DR05 26-July Internal Survey DR06 26-July Internal Survey DR07 26-July Internal Survey DR08 26-July Internal Survey DR09 26-July Internal Survey WestLand Resources, Inc. 4

9 Table 1. Mines evaluated and survey methods used in Feature Number Date(s) Visited Survey Conducted DR10 26-July Internal Survey DR11 26-July Internal Survey DR12 26-July Internal Survey DR13 26-July Internal Survey DR14 26-July Internal Survey Additionally, we monitored microclimate conditions, specifically temperature and relative humidity, within three roost complexes (having multiple openings) that are considered important to local bats (Table 2). During these site visits we conducted internal surveys and downloaded/reprogrammed microclimate loggers. These loggers (i-button Hygrochron Maxim, Sunnyvale, CA) measure temperature (± o C) and relative humidity (± 0.04%) at a programmable rate. We programmed the loggers to sample every 2 hours during the summer months (May-November) and every 4 hours during the winter months (November-May) (Table 2). We sampled more often during the summer to achieve a more detailed microclimate evaluation throughout the summer when bats are roosting in greater numbers. All internal surveys followed the white-nose syndrome operating protocol provided by the USFWS (Appendix A). Tyvek suits were worn to prevent or reduce the transfer of infectious agents between features that are used by bats. WestLand Resources, Inc. 5

10 Table 2. Microclimate loggers deployed in bat roosts in abandoned mines in Mine Location Adit 38 and 39 Mine Complex Winter h samples Summer h samples Adit 38 Upper roost area yes yes Adit 38 Lower roost room yes no 1 Helena Mine Complex Adit R37A Front yes no 1 Adit R37A Middle, in main passage above large guano pile yes yes Adit R37A Back of main passage yes yes Adit R38A Front no 2 yes Adit R38A Above pit near terminus (working face) of mine yes yes Adit R38A Bottom no 2 yes Adit R38A Outside javelina room yes no 1 Adit R38A Back in a joint at far end of horizontal passage yes no 1 R46 and R47 Mine Complex Adit R46 Main right passage above guano pile no 3 yes Adit R46 Main left passage above guano pile yes yes Adit R47 Above large guano pile yes yes Adit R47 Choeronycteris (Chero) dome yes no 1 no 1 = logger malfunctioned no 2 = logger not deployed no 3 = logger lost/removed WestLand Resources, Inc. 6

11 3. RESULTS Eight bat species were identified in 2011 (Table 3). Observations noted within the features surveyed in 2011 are provided below. Information from our previous years of survey is provided in Table 4 in the discussion section. Table 3. Bat Species observed during 2011 surveys on the Rosemont Holdings and adjacent Coronado National Forest Service. Rankings obtained from Arizona Game and Fish Department sensitive status species list updated November Ranking Definitions: WSC=wildlife species of concern, S=sensitive, and LE=listed endangered. Status Code Scientific Name Common Name Arizona Game and Fish Department Forest Service Fish and Wildlife Service CHME Choeronycteris mexicana Mexican long-tongued bat WSC COTO Corynorhinus townsendii Townsend's big-eared bat -- S -- EPFU Eptesicus fuscus Big-brown bat LEYE Leptonycteris yerbabuenae Lesser long-nosed bat WSC -- LE MYCA Myotis californicus California myotis MYCI* Myotis ciliolabrum Western small-footed myotis MYTH Myotis thysanodes Fringed myotis MYVE Myotis velifer Cave myotis *A small myotis was observed in R46 which could be MYCA or MYCI which are difficult to distinguish in the field. Confirmation was not recorded for this species although MYCA was confirmed in 2009 and FEATURES SURVEYED WITHIN THE ROSEMONT PROJECT FOOTPRINT CHICAGO MINE (Adit 9) Internal Survey Date: July 15 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond Nectar bats were observed day-roosting in the twilight area above the main mine. A single L. yerbabuenae and five adult C. mexicana (one with a nursing pup) were observed in a dome area where bats were typically observed on previous years. Upon entering the lower passage a solitary Corynorhinus townsendii and a small myotis (likely Myotis californicus) were observed. ADIT 17 (formerly F-1) Internal Survey Date: July 14 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This mine has two horizontal branches the left branch ends with a vertical shaft and metal chute. The shaft has not been fully evaluated for safety reasons. WestLand Resources, Inc. 7

12 Two C. mexicana day-roosting were observed in the mine. Guano, splatter, and insect parts were also observed inside. Cave crickets are often observed in the mine. ADIT 33 (formerly P) Internal Survey Date: July 14 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This mine is a short horizontal adit approximately 2 meters (m) high x 2 m wide x 16 m long. Fresh insectivorous guano was observed, but no bats were observed. ADITS 38 and 39 (formerly S and S1) Microclimate Data Survey and Emergence Survey Dates: May 4, August 26, and November 12 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, Corey Archer, and security personnel Emergence counts were conducted at the upper vertical entrance (Adit 39 [S]) and the lower horizontal entrance (Adit 39 [S1]). Forty-eight bats exited the upper entrance and 61 bats exited the lower entrance for a total of 109 Corynorhinus townsendii in the roost. No bats were observed in November although fresh moth wings, orthopteran wings, and beetle elytra were observed mixed in with guano pellets below some of the roost sites. Internal mine temperatures in the upper roost ranged between 15 C and 25 C while relative humidity ranged between approximately 10% and 80% between May and November (Figures 7A and B). Winter temperatures between November and May varied between 10 C and 17 C and 18% and 40% relative humidity in the upper roost (Figure 8A). Microclimate in the lower roost during the same period ranged between 9 C and 16 C while the relative humidity ranged between 20% and 45% (Figure 8B). WestLand Resources, Inc. 8

13 A B Figure 7. Adit 38, a documented Corynorhinus townsendii roost, summer temperatures and relative humidity conditions in the upper roost between May and November (A) and how the data cluster during the summer months (B). WestLand Resources, Inc. 9

14 A B Figure 8. Adit 38, a documented Corynorhinus townsendii roost, winter temperatures and relative humidity between November and May in the upper roost area (A) and in the lower roost area (B). WestLand Resources, Inc. 10

15 ADIT 40 (formerly T) Internal Survey Date: July 14 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This is a complex mine which has three branched passages. Three adult and two subadult C. mexicana and a solitary male Myotis thysanodes were observed. Near the terminus of one branch, the passage gets very humid and there are typically cave crickets on the walls. ADIT 49 (formerly AC) Internal Survey Date: July 15 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond Two adult C. mexicana with one nursing a pup were observed. ADIT 59 (formerly AL) Internal Survey Date: July 15 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond Two adult C. mexicana, one of which was a male, were observed. ADIT 62 (formerly AO) Internal Survey Dates: July 15 and July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This is a short horizontal mine with a small entrance. In mid-july, two adult C. mexicana with one nursing pup were observed. In late July, four adult C. mexicana were observed, and one adult post-lactating female was captured and released. WestLand Resources, Inc. 11

16 3.2 FEATURES SURVEYED ALONG THE POTENTIAL WATER UTILITY CORRIDOR ADIT R8 Internal Survey Date: July 14 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This is a small mine. Thirteen C. mexicana were counted and two individuals, including a lactating female and one male subadult whose adult teeth had not fully erupted, were captured and released. ADIT R9 Internal Survey Date: July 14 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This mine is small and located in the same drainage as Adit R8 and R10. Seven C. mexicana were counted at this mine and two individuals, both adult nulliparous (have not had young) females, were captured and released. ADIT R10 Internal Survey Date: July 14 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This mine has a large obvious entrance, easily seen from the road west of Gunsight Pass. The mine is not extensive (approximately 100 feet [ft] long) and is primarily two large rooms, from the back of which daylight from the entrance can still be seen. No bats were observed although insectivorous guano and insect parts were detected. ADIT R44 Internal Surveys Date: July 14 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This mine is fairly complex with a pit in the back which has never been fully evaluated for safety reasons. Four C. mexicana were counted in this mine. WestLand Resources, Inc. 12

17 ADIT R46 Microclimate Data Survey and Emergence Survey Dates: May 4, July 14, August 29, and November 12 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Bob Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This is a long and complex mine that is physically connected to Adit R47 through a system of horizontal and vertical passages. Adit R46 is a horizontal mine with multiple branches and is typically colder and wetter than the upper passages of Adit R47. In August, 21 bats were observed entering and 22 bats were observed exiting during the emergence count. In November, a dead Eptesicus fuscus (new species to this roost complex) was found. To date five bat species have been documented using the mine complex including C. mexicana, Corynorhinus townsendii, Eptesicus fuscus, Myotis thysanodes, and Myotis velifer. Temperatures in the left main passage fell between 13 C and 14 C and relative humidity between 45% and 100% in the same period (Figures 9A and B). From November to May, conditions in the left main passage ranged between 10 C and 13 C and 40% and 95% (Figure 10). The main right passage logger malfunctioned during the warm season. WestLand Resources, Inc. 13

18 A B Figure 9. Adit R46, a documented roost for five bat species, summer temperatures and relative humidity in the left main passage between May and November (A) and how the data cluster in the summer months (B). WestLand Resources, Inc. 14

19 Figure 10. Adit R46, a bat roost used by five species, winter temperatures and relative humidity in the left main passage between November and May. ADIT R47 Microclimate Data Survey, Internal Survey, and Emergence Survey Dates: May 4, July 14, August 29, and November 12 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Bob Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This is a long and complex mine that is part of an upper section of Adit R46 that connecting through vertical passages. In July, one C. mexicana was observed. In August, 94 bats were observed exiting the mine during the emergence count that were acoustically identified as C. mexicana, M. thysanodes, and M. velifer. To date five bat species have been documented using the mine complex including C. mexicana, Corynorhinus townsendii, E. fuscus, M. thysanodes, and M. velifer. Internal mine temperatures above the large guano pile varied between 16 C and 25 C and relative humidity varied between 5% and 90% from May to November (Figures 11A and B). Winter conditions in the same area ranged from 16 C and 20 C in temperature and 19% and 60% in relative humidity (Figure 12). WestLand Resources, Inc. 15

20 A B Figure 11. Adit R47, a documented roost for five bat species, summer temperatures and relative humidity plots above the large guano pile between May and November (A) and how the data cluster during the summer months (B). WestLand Resources, Inc. 16

21 Figure 12. R47A, area where Choeronycteris mexicana roost, winter temperatures and relative humidity between November and May. ADIT R49 Internal Survey and Emergence Survey Dates: July 14 and September 1 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This adit is a simple sloping passage to a dead-end room. In July two C. mexicana were observed in the last room. In September, approximately 20 C. mexicana were observed roosting in the twilight area. The exit count included C. mexicana, M. velifer and M. thysanodes (as confirmed with acoustic sampling) for a total of approximately 118 bats. ADIT R54 and R55 Internal Survey and Emergence Survey Dates: July 14 and September 1 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, and Gabrielle Diamond This mine has three entrances but is not a particularly large mine. The upper entrance (Adit R54) is a short passage with a shaft in the floor which connects to Adit R55. Next to the main entrance of Adit R55 there is a short pit that connects to the main mine. In July three adult C. mexicana were observed in the mine and one had a pup. In September, two or three of bats were observed exiting the mine during emergence counts. WestLand Resources, Inc. 17

22 3.3 FEATURES SURVEYED WITHIN THE ROSEMONT HOLDINGS OUTSIDE THE PROJECT FOOTPRINT ADIT R2 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner Three adult L. yerbabuenae were observed day-roosting. ADIT DR1 Internal Survey Date: July 14, and July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine entrance was discovered to be a second entrance to Adit 62, which had already been evaluated on 7/14. In late July, four C. mexicana, one of which was an adult female with used mammary glands, were observed. ADIT DR2 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This adit is only a small mine approximately 1.5 m long. No evidence of bats or bat sign. ADIT DR3 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This adit is only a small mine approximately 2.5 m long. No evidence of bats or bat sign. ADIT DR4 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine is short (2.5 m long) and approximately 2.5 m high. WestLand Resources, Inc. 18

23 Insectivorous bat guano with beetle elytra and interspersed mesquite bug wings was observed. This mine is not long enough to get fully dark in the daytime and insect parts are present in the mine, suggesting it may be a night roost for insectivorous bat species. ADIT DR5 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine has two horizontal passages with large numbers of cave crickets on the walls and ceilings. One passage is about 5 m long and the other is about 10 m long. There was a possible deposit of nectar bat fecal material, but no insectivorous bat guano. A pack rat nest is present. ADIT DR6 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner Two Choeronycteris Mexicana were observed; one was caught and identified as a subadult male (epiphyses were not fully fused). One adult Corynorhinus townsendii was observed. ADIT DR7 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This site was only a prospect (shallow feature). No bats or evidence of bat use. ADIT DR8 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine had a vertical shaft entrance that was about 2 m by 2 m. The pit was about10 m deep. No horizontal passages taking off the sides of the shaft were visible. No bats or evidence of bat use. WestLand Resources, Inc. 19

24 ADIT DR9 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine is a short measuring approximately 2 m long. No bats or evidence of bat use. ADIT DR10 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine was determined from an adit symbol on the USGS Topographic Map. Upon evaluation, it was only a large waste pile with a collapsed area at the head of the ravine. No bats or evidence of bat use. ADIT DR11 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This is a simple mine that has a 2 m diameter passage and is about 10 m long. One nectar bat was observed exiting as surveyors entered the mine. Positive identification of the nectar bat to species was not possible. ADIT DR12 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This is a short mine with a small dome in the passage. A nectar bat was day-roosting in the dome, although there was not complete darkness at the back of the passage. Positive identification of the nectar bat to species was not possible. There was a small amount of nectar bat fecal material on the walls and floor. ADIT DR13 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine was a blind pit approximately 2 m diameter and about 2.5 m deep. WestLand Resources, Inc. 20

25 No bats or evidence of bat-use. ADIT DR14 Internal Survey Date: July 26 Participants: Debbie Buecher and Ronnie Sidner This mine was a simple sloping passage about 2.5 m long. No bats or evidence of bat-use. 3.4 FEATURES SURVEYED OUTSIDE THE ROSEMONT HOLDINGS ADIT R37A Microclimate Data Survey, Internal Survey, and Emergence Surveys Dates: May 2, August 26, September 15, and November 18 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, Corey Archer, Ben Rackham, and security personnel In August, an emergence count was conducted and approximately 4,650 L. yerbabuenae emerged from the main entrance. In September, a second emergence count was conducted and approximately 2,021 L. yerbabuenae emerged. Internal mine temperatures at the back of the mine varied between 20 C and 23 C and relative humidity varied from 10% to over 100% from May to November (Figures 13A and B). At the middle of the passage temperature ranged between 19 C and 27 C and relative humidity ranged between 10% and 100% (Figures 14A and B). Winter conditions at the front of the mine ranged from 14 C and 21 C in temperature and 8% and 45% in relative humidity (Figure 15). WestLand Resources, Inc. 21

26 A B Figure 13. Helena Mine (R37A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, summer temperatures and relative humidity at the back joint of the mine between May and November (A) and how the data cluster (B). Red box highlights the period during which the bats are using the mine in large numbers. WestLand Resources, Inc. 22

27 A B Figure 14. Helena Mine (R37A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, summer temperatures and relative humidity conditions at the midpoint of the mine between May and November (A) and how the data cluster (B). Red box highlights the period during which the bats are using the mine in large numbers. WestLand Resources, Inc. 23

28 Figure 15. Helena Mine (R37A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, winter temperatures and relative humidity in the front of the mine between November and May. WestLand Resources, Inc. 24

29 ADIT R37B Internal Survey and Emergence Surveys Dates: May 2, August 26, September 15, and November 18 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, Corey Archer, Ben Rackham, and security personnel The entrance of this feature opens into the front of a passage in Adit R37A. When emergence counts are conducted they are done so both entrances are watched during emergence flights. Few bats use this opening (between six and eight) and the majority of the colony emerges from the main entrance (Adit R37A). In September, few L. yerbabuenae exited this opening during emergence counts. ADIT R37C Internal Survey and Emergence Surveys Dates: May 2, August 26, September 15, and November 18 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, Corey Archer, Ben Rackham, and security personnel The entrance of this mine is only 2 m from Adit R37B, but accesses an entirely different mine. In November, one C. mexicana and one L. yerbabuenae were observed hanging in the back room of the mine. The rock temperature where the bats were roosting was 22.1 o C. ADIT R38A Microclimate Data Survey, Internal Survey, and Emergence Surveys Dates: May 2, August 26, September 15, and November 18 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, Corey Archer, Ben Rackham, and security personnel In September, 16 L. yerbabuenae exited during the emergence survey. In November, a new bat species was documented using this mine, Corynorhinus townsendii, day roosting in the lower passage. An unidentified species of skunk was observed in a rock pile in the back joint. There was a lot of new scat, likely from the skunk, in the passage. Internal mine temperatures and relative humidity at the bottom passages of the mine varied between 18 C and 19 C and 65% and 120% from May to November (Figures 16A and B). Above a pit near the back of the mine temperature and relative humidity varied from 18 C and 22 C and 15% and 85% (Figures 17A and B). At the back of the mine temperature and relative humidity varied from 16 C and 29 C and 5% to 100% (Figures 18A and B). Near the front of the mine temperature and relative humidity varied between 16 C and 34 C and 1% and 70% (Figures 19A and B). Winter conditions between November to May in the javelina room of the lower passage was fairly consistent in temperature at 19 C and varied in relative humidity from 100% to 115% (Figure 20). In the back joint the temperature stayed around 21 C and relative humidity varied from 20% to 40% (Figure 21). Temperatures ranged between 13 C and 19 C and relative humidity ranged between 10% and 50% above a pit near the back of the mine (Figure 22). WestLand Resources, Inc. 25

30 A B Figure 16. Helena Mine (R38A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, summer temperatures and relative humidity in the bottom passage between May and November (A) and how the data cluster (B). Note how stable the temperatures are throughout the summer at this location in the mine. WestLand Resources, Inc. 26

31 A B Figure 17. Helena Mine (R38A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, summer temperatures and relative humidity above the pit near the back of the mine between May and November (A) and how the data cluster (B). WestLand Resources, Inc. 27

32 A B Figure 18. Helena Mine (R38A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, summer temperatures and relative humidity at the back of the main horizontal passage between May and November (A) and how the data cluster (B). The temperatures and relative humidity vary throughout the season because this mine has 2 entrances and allows a greater amount of air movement than a mine with a single entrance. WestLand Resources, Inc. 28

33 A B Figure 19. Helena Mine (R38A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, summer temperatures and relative humidity near the main entrance between May and November (A) and how the data cluster (B). WestLand Resources, Inc. 29

34 Figure 20. Helena Mine, (R38A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, winter temperatures and relative humidity between November and May in a lower passage of the mine. Figure 21. Helena Mine (R38A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, winter temperatures and relative humidity between November and May in a back joint of the mine. WestLand Resources, Inc. 30

35 Figure 22. Helena Mine (R38A), a documented Leptonycteris yerbabuenae roost, winter temperatures and relative humidity between November and May above a pit near the back of the mine. ADIT R38B Microclimate Data Survey, Internal Survey, and Emergence Surveys Dates: May 2, August 26, September 15, and November 18 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, Corey Archer, Ben Rackham, and security personnel Adit R38B connects to Adit R38A through a low crawl. In September, 16 L. yerbabuenae exited during the emergence survey. In November, a new bat species to this mine, Corynorhinus townsendii, was documented day roosting in the lower passage. ADIT R38C Microclimate Data Survey, Internal Survey, and Emergence Surveys Dates: May 2, August 26, September 15, and November 18 Participants: Debbie Buecher, Ronnie Sidner, Corey Archer, Ben Rackham, and security personnel Adit R38C is a small adit with two alcoves. There is no evidence to suggest that this adit provides passage to the internal workings of the Helena Mine complex. WestLand Resources, Inc. 31

36 4. DISCUSSION We made 12 field visits during 2011 to evaluate thirty-nine (39) mining features of interest within the Rosemont Holdings and vicinity (25 previously surveyed features and 14 features that had not been previously surveyed, but are mapped on the Helvetia USGS 7.5-minute series quadrangle as mining features) (Table 1). Visits included mine entry to search for bats or evidence of bat use, such as bone material, insectivorous fecal material (guano), nectar bat fecal material (splatter), insect debris below night roosts, and staining on walls or ceilings. In addition, we conducted emergence surveys on a subset of roosts to estimate colony size and utilized acoustic equipment to assist with species identification. In 2011, we documented seven bat species (two nectar bat species and five insectivorous bat species) using the surveyed mines of Rosemont and vicinity (Table 5). No new species were detected in the area although differences in species use were observed within specific roost sites. As observed in previous years, bats were found roosting in some mines within the Rosemont Project area (Figure 6). In Chicago Mine (Adit 9), we observed L.yerbabuenae and C. Mexicana, as in previous years, but in 2011, we found Corynorhinus townsendii and a small myotis (likely M. californicus) using this feature also. In Adit complex 38 and 39, Corynorhinus townsendii has continued to use this feature as a maternity roost since its discovery in Adit 40 is still being used by C. Mexicana, and in 2011 M. thysanodes was also occupying this site. No M. velifer were observed using this site as detected in previous years. Similar to prior surveys, bats were observed using several mines outside of the Rosemont Project area (Figures 4 and 6). At the Helena Mine (Adit complex R37 and R38), located outside the Rosemont Holdings, we conducted two emergence counts and inventoried approximately 4,650 L. yerbabuenae in August and 2,200 in September. This is similar to 2009 counts of approximately 4,800 bats. We also detected Corynorhinus townsendii using this complex in November which is a first observation of this species at this feature. This site could be a roost of regional importance for L. yerbabuenae. Three L. yerbabuenae were also noted in Adit R2 located east Sycamore Canyon. In the potential water utility corridor near Gunsight Pass (Features R8, R9, R44, R47, R48, R49, and R55; (Figure 5) a maternity colony for the nectar bat, C. mexicana, was discovered. Numerous adult females with nursing pups were observed using a subset of these adits. In Adit R46/R47 complex, a skeleton of E. fuscus, roosting M. thysanodes, and Corynorhinus townsendii, which are all new species to this feature, were observed. In Adit R49, M. velifer and M. thysanodes were confirmed using the feature. In 2010, these species were not confirmed and only small myotis were documented using the site. Evaluations of additional features in Sycamore and Wasp Canyons that were previously unsurveyed led to location of five mines that had some evidence of bat use. Feature DR01 had four C. mexicana roosting inside and it was confirmed that this feature is connected to Adit 62 (Figure 6). Feature DR06 was occupied by two C. mexicana and one Corynorhinus townsendii. An unidentified nectar bat was observed in both DR11 and DR12 and insectivorous guano was located in DR04. WestLand Resources, Inc. 32

37 Seasonal microclimatic conditions varied within and between roosts. In general, temperatures and relative humidity were higher when bats were present (May through November) (Table 4). The range between lowest and highest temperatures spanned 21 degrees Celsius in summer and only 12 degrees Celsius in winter. Relative humidity was variable between seasons ranging 115 percentage points in summer and 107 percentage points in winter. Table 4. Summary of microclimate conditions recorded in roosts over 2011 field season. Location of data logger is provided above value. Feature ID Summer Winter Temperature ( C) Relative Humidity (%) Temperature ( C) Relative Humidity (%) 38 & 39 R46 R47 Helena R37A Helena R38A Upper Rt. Main 14 Back Bottom Back Guano Lower N/A Lt. Main Mid Pit Front Upper Rt. Main 100 Back Bottom Back Guano Lower N/A Lt. Main Mid Pit Front 1-70 Upper Rt. Main N/A Javelina 19 Guano Front Back 21 Lower 9-16 Lt. Main Pit Upper Rt. Main N/A Javelina Guano Front 8-45 Back Range C 5-120% 9-12 C 8-115% Lower Lt. Main Pit WestLand Resources, Inc. 33

38 Table 5. Observations of bats and/or evidence of bat use and comparison between surveys conducted in 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, and No mine features were surveyed in Note: Former mine identification numbers are provided in parentheses under Feature ID. See Table 1 for four-letter species code. Feature ID 17 (F-1) 18 (F-2) 19 (F-3) 29 (L) 30 (M) 33 (P) Chicago Mine: 9 38 & 39 (formerly S & S1) 40 (T) 49 (AC) 59 (AL) 62 (AO) New Splatter New Guano/ Insect Parts 2011 Nectar Bats Insectivorous Bats Within Project Y Y CHME N Y Y Y 2006 Observations 2008 Observations 2009 Observations 2010 Observations 2011 Observations Roosting bats present: M. velifer and C. Mexicana. No evidence of bats observed. No evidence of bats observed. Features Within the Rosemont Footprint Roosting bats present: M. velifer and C. mexicana Y N/A Moth wings noted. Roosting bats present: M. velifer and C. mexicana. N/A Two Choeronycteris mexicana observed. N/A M. velifer observed. N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. N/A N/A Insectivorous bat guano and moth wings noted Y N/A Bat guano noted. Bat guano noted. N/A Y Y N N Y N/A Y Y LEYE CHME COTO MYCA N Y N COTO Y N/A Y Y CHME MYTH Y N/A Y N CHME N Y N/A Y Y CHME N Y N/A Y Y CHME N Y N/A Y N/A Nectarivorous bat guano and one C. mexicana observed L. yerbabuenae, C mexicana, M velifer, and possibly C. townsendii were observed roosting in the mine. No bats were observed exiting the mine, however configuration of the mine opening made proper placement of the video camera and IR sources difficult. Visited late in the yearinsectivorous bat guano noted. Mine used by nectar and insect bats. M. velifer and C. mexicana observed. No evidence of bat use noted, however this feature appeared to have potential as a roosting site. No evidence of bat use noted, however this feature appeared to have potential as a roosting site. No signs of bat use observed, but this feature appeared to have potential as a roost. Nectarivorous and insectivorous bat guano noted. A nectarivorous bat (having loud wing beats) was also observed. Approximately 32 bats were observed exiting the mine. The count was stopped when bats began to re-enter the mine. A few ultrasonic bat calls were recorded from L. yerbabuenae, 50 khz myotis and 40 khz myotis. This mine is a day roost for nectar and insect bats. This feature was supporting a C. townsendii maternity colony. Mine used by nectar and insect bats. M. velifer and C. mexicana observed. Three C. mexicana present. M. velifer and C. mexicana present. M. velifer and C. mexicana present. N/A N/A N/A Emergence counts conducted on June 15 th with 45 out/64in at lower entrance, 27 out/14 in at upper entrance. No bats were in residence during the second site visit on November 15 th. N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Fresh insectivorous guano present. One Leptonycteris yerbabuenae, four Choernonycteris mexicana (one with pup), one Corynorhinus townsendii, and one myotis (likely Myotis californicus) observed. 19 Corynorhinus townsendii emerged during Aug 28 th exit count (46 from upper opening [Adit 39] and 61 from lower [Adit 38]). Lepidoptera wings were also found on Nov 12th. Three adults and two subadult Choeronycteris mexicana and one Myotis thysanodes observed. Two adults and one pup Choeronycteris mexicana were observed. Two adult Choeronycteris mexicana observed. Two adults and one pup Choeronycteris mexicana were observed. Connected to DR01. WestLand Resources, Inc. 34

39 Table 5. Observations of bats and/or evidence of bat use and comparison between surveys conducted in 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, and No mine features were surveyed in Note: Former mine identification numbers are provided in parentheses under Feature ID. See Table 1 for four-letter species code. Feature ID New Splatter New Guano/ Insect Parts 2011 Nectar Bats Insectivorous Bats Within Project 2006 Observations 2008 Observations 2009 Observations 2010 Observations 2011 Observations Features Along the Potential Water Utility Corridor R8 Y N CHME N N N/A C. mexicana present. C. mexicana present. N/A R9 Y N CHME N N N/A C. mexicana present. C. mexicana present. N/A R10 N Y N N N N/A Insect parts and insectivorous guano noted. R44 Y N CHME N N N/A Insectivorous bat guano noted. R46 N Y CHME R47 N Y CHME COTO MYTH MYVE EPFU COTO MYTH MYVE EPFU R48 Y N CHME N N N/A R49 Y N CHME MYTH MYVE N N N/A N/A Feature was not entered, but it was observed that the air flow was notably good. Large piles of insectivorous guano and a dead M. velifer were noted. Traces of insectivorous guano noted. N N/A No evidence of bats observed. Insect parts and insectivorous guano noted. This feature appears to be a night roost for Antorzous pallidus. One E. fuscus and six to eight nectar bats observed. More than 45 M. thysanodes (potential maternity colony) were observed. Large amounts of insectivorous guano and two mummified bats observed. No evidence of bats observed. Approximately 17 C. mexicana observed in last room of feature. N/A N/A An emergence count was conducted on June 24 th with 25 out/ 36 in observed, with 20 M. velifer and 5 M. thysanodes night roosting. Five C. townsendii observed in feature on November 15 th. June 24 th emergence count results: 73 out/ 28 in, one C. mexicanus night roosting. It was found that Adit R46 connected with Adit R47. Five C. mexicanus noted day roosting on November 15 th. N/A Two small myotis observed night roosting. Thirteen Choeronycteris mexicana observed. Includes lactating females and subadults. Seven Choeronycteris mexicana observed. Includes adults and subadults. Fresh insectivorous guano present. Four Chorenoycteris mexicana observed. Guano and insect parts were also observed. 21 bats entered and 22 bats exited during emergence counts in August. An Eptesicus fuscus skeleton was observed inside. 94 bats exited during emergence counts in August (Choreronycteris mexicana, Corynorhinus townsendii, Myotis thysanodes, and Myotis velifer). Four Choeronycteris mexicana observed. Two Choeronyceris mexicana (July), ~20 C. mexicana (September), and 118 bats (C. mexicana, Myotis velifer, and Myotis thysanodes) emerging during exit counts. R54 N N CHME N N N/A N/A No evidence of bats. N/A See R55 R55 N N CHME N N N/A N/A Approximately seven C. mexicana observed day roosting. One bat observed leaving the feature, one entering during June 25 th survey. Two to three Choeronycteris mexicana were observed. WestLand Resources, Inc. 35

40 Table 5. Observations of bats and/or evidence of bat use and comparison between surveys conducted in 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, and No mine features were surveyed in Note: Former mine identification numbers are provided in parentheses under Feature ID. See Table 1 for four-letter species code Feature ID New Splatter New Guano/ Insect Parts Nectar Bats Insectivorous Bats Within Project 2006 Observations 2008 Observations 2009 Observations 2010 Observations 2011 Observations Features Within the Rosemont Holdings Outside the Project Footprint 11 (A) 13 (B) 20 (B-1) 15 (D) 48 (AB) N N/A N A mummified M. velifer was found in this feature N N/A General scattering of insectivorous guano noted. Insectivorous guano, nectarivorous fecal splatter, and five or more C. mexicana noted. Female C. mexicana with pup observed N N/A Insectivorous guano piles present N N/A R2 Y N LEYE N N N/A A small amount of insectivorous bat guano was noted. This feature was visited late in the season. One L. yerbabuenae was observed day roosting. Supported roosting bats (potentially nectar bats due to their size). Nectarivorous fecal splatter noted. Connects to Adit A, where bats were also noted. No bats in residents, but insectivorous guano present. Insectivorous guano piles present. N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Insect parts noted. N/A N/A A large L. yerbabuenae night roost was documented. DR CEME -- Y N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Three adults Leptonycteris yerbabuenae were observed. Two Choeronycteris mexicana were observed in early July. Four C. mexicana were observed in late July. One female had used mammary glands. Is connected to Adit 62. DR Y N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. DR Y N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. DR04 -- Y Y N/A N/A N/A N/A DR05 -- Y Y N/A N/A N/A N/A DR CEME COTO N N/A N/A N/A N/A Guano and insect parts were observed. Possible nectar bat guano observed. Two Choeronycteris mexicana (one of which was a subadult) and one Corynorhinus townsendid were observed. DR N N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. DR N N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. DR N N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. DR N N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. DR Unknown -- N N/A N/A N/A N/A DR Unknown -- N N/A N/A N/A N/A One nectar bat exited but was not identified to species. One nectar bat exited but was not identified to species. WestLand Resources, Inc. 36

41 Table 5. Observations of bats and/or evidence of bat use and comparison between surveys conducted in 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, and No mine features were surveyed in Note: Former mine identification numbers are provided in parentheses under Feature ID. See Table 1 for four-letter species code. Feature ID New Splatter New Guano/ Insect Parts 2011 Nectar Bats Insectivorous Bats Within Project 2006 Observations 2008 Observations 2009 Observations 2010 Observations 2011 Observations DR N N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. DR N N/A N/A N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. Helena R37A Helena R37B Helena R37C Helena R38A Helena R38B Helena R38C Y N LEYE N N N/A Features Outside the Rosemont Holdings Large amounts of nectar bat splatter noted late in year. Y N LEYE N N N/A This feature is a skylight for R37A. Y N LEYE CEME N N N/A Nectar bat splatter observed. An exit count was conducted and approximately 4,800 L. yerbabuenae emerged from this large roost. A few L. yerbabuenae exited here. Six bats (most likely nectar bats due to loud wing beat) were noted. Y N LEYE COTO N N/A 20 to 30 L. yerbabuenae noted. 58 L. yerbabuenae observed. Y N LEYE CEME N N N/A This feature is a skylight for R38A and is connected to L. yerbabuenae roost in 37A. Four C. mexicana noted. No bats in residence on May 14 th visit. Emergence counts conducted July 14 th with 26 out/18 in, and more than 143 on August 7 th (rained out). There were no bats in residence on the November 18 th site visit. Emergence count conducted July 14 th with 7 out/6 in, includes feature R37C. See R37B. No bats in residence on November 18 th visit. On May 14 th visit five C. mexicana, two L. yerbabuenae and one M. velifer observed day roosting. Emergence count conducted on July 14 th with 31 out/14 in. Another count conducted on August 7 th, more than 13 bats were observed before the count was rained out. Five C. mexicanus noted day roosting on final site visit November 18 th. Two C. mexicana observed July 14 th, also two C. mexicana noted day roosting in entrance room during August 7 th survey. Approximately 4,650 Leptonycteris yerbabuenae emerged the mine complex in August and 2,201 in September. See R37A Six to eight bats exited this feature. See R37A One Choeronycteris mexicana and one Leptonycteris yerbabuenae was also observed in November within this feature. See R37A Sixteen Leptonycteris yerbabuenae exited this feature in September. One Corynorhinus townsendii was also observed in this feature in November. See R37A Four Choeronycteris mexicana were also observed in this feature. Y N LEYE N N N/A No evidence of bats observed. No evidence of bats observed. N/A See R37A R N N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. N/A N/A R N N/A N/A No evidence of bats observed. N/A N/A R N N/A N/A Large amount of nectar bat splatter and three C. mexicana day roosting were noted. N/A N/A WestLand Resources, Inc. 37

42 5. REFERENCES CITED WestLand Resources, Inc. 2009a. Agave survey of the Rosemont holdings. Unpublished report submitted to Augusta Resources b. Rosemont Holdings 2009 Bat Roost Survey. December 18. Submitted to Rosemont Copper. 25 pp. plus figures and appendices Revised Rosemont Holdings 2009 Bat Roost Survey. Unpublished report dated January 14, Rosemont Project 2010 Bat Roost Surveys. Unpublished report dated September WestLand Resources, Inc. 38

43 FIGURES

44 ARIZONA SOUTHEAST PIMA COUNTY FLAGSTAFF PHOENIX YUMA TUCSON PROJECT LOCATION Approximate Scale 1" = 10 Miles Rosemont Holdings DWG FullPath: M:\projects\ \2011 Bat Roost Survey\Fig1 Vicinity.dwg T.18S.,R.15E., Portion of Sections 1,2, 10-15, 22-25, 35 & 36, T.19S.,R.15E., Portions of Sections 1 & 2, T.18S.,R.16E., Portion of Sections 6-8, 14-23, & 27-33, T.19S.,R.16E., Portions of Sections 4, 5, & 6. Pima County, Arizona Mt. Fagan, Empire Ranch, Corona de Tucson & Helvetia USGS 7.5 Minute Quadrangles ROSEMONT PROJECT 2011 Bat Roost Surveys Vicinity Map Figure 1

45 ARIZONA MOHAVE COCONINO APACHE 40 Flagstaff NAVAJO 40 YAVAPAI 17 LA PAZ 10 PHOENIX GILA MARICOPA GRAHAM GREENLEE Yuma YUMA 8 Bluebird Mine Copper Mountain Mine Old Mammon Mine PIMA PINAL 10 TUCSON 19 Box Canyon Crevice Helena Mine 10 COCHISE Hilltop Mines Data Source: US Fish & Wildlife Service 1995, WestLand Resouces (Helena Mine) Project Location SANTA CRUZ Patagonia Bat Cave Manila Mine State of Texas Mine Maternity Roosts Post Maternity Roosts ROSEMONT PROJECT 2011 Bat Roost Surveys Miles Known Major Roost Sites of Lesser Long-nosed Bat in Arizona Figure 2

46 Path: M:\projects\ \2011 Bat Roost Survey\Fig3_Overview_key.mxd Date: 2/1/2012 User: reneew Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 ± 0 1,250 2,500 Feet Legend Rosemont Holdings Boundary Footprint of Mine Boundary Currently Planned Water Utility Alignment Bat Presence No Evidence of Bat Use Noted Insectivorous Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding and Insectivorous Bat Use ROSEMONT PROJECT 2011 Bat Roost Surveys Overview of Surveyed Mine Features Figure 3

47 Path: M:\projects\ \2011 Bat Roost Survey\Fig4_Helena_Mine_area.mxd Date: 2/1/2012 User: reneew R37A R38B R38A R37B ± ,000 Feet Legend Rosemont Holdings Boundary Bat Presence No Evidence of Bat Use Noted Insectivorous Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding and Insectivorous Bat Use ROSEMONT PROJECT 2011 Bat Roost Surveys Surveyed Mine Features- Helena Mine Complex Figure 4

48 Path: M:\projects\ \2011 Bat Roost Survey\Fig5_Gunsight_Pass_area.mxd Date: 2/1/2012 User: reneew R46 R8 R47 R10 R44 R9 R55 R49 R48 ± ,000 Feet Legend Footprint of Mine Boundary Currently Planned Water Utility Alignment Bat Presence No Evidence of Bat Use Noted Insectivorous Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding and Insectivorous Bat Use ROSEMONT PROJECT 2011 Bat Roost Surveys Surveyed Mine Features Along Proposed Project Utility Corridor Figure 5

49 Path: M:\projects\ \2011 Bat Roost Survey\Fig6_Sycamore_Canyon_area.mxd Date: 2/1/2012 User: reneew DR02 DR DR03 Chicago Mine DR04 DR05 DR12 DR10 DR13 DR14 DR11 DR09 DR08 DR07 R2 DR06 ± ,000 Feet Legend Rosemont Holdings Boundary Footprint of Mine Boundary Bat Presence No Evidence of Bat Use Noted Insectivorous Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding Bat Use Noted Nectar Feeding and Insectivorous Bat Use ROSEMONT PROJECT 2011 Bat Roost Surveys Surveyed Mine Features Within Project Footprint and Along Sycamore and Wasp Canyons Figure 6

50 APPENDIX A US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE WHITE-NOSE SYNDROME DECONTAMINATION PROTOCOL

51 White-Nose Syndrome Decontamination Protocol (v.3) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Draft The USFWS strongly recommends compliance with all cave closures, advisories, and regulations in all Federal, State, tribal, and private lands. By disregarding this recommendation, you could potentially promote the transmission of the fungus Geomyces destructans (G.d.), likely the causative agent for white-nose syndrome (WNS), which is responsible for significant bat mortality in eastern North America. Should you choose to disregard this recommendation, the following protocol outlines the best known procedures to help reduce the spread of the fungus. You should not handle bats. If you observe live or dead bats (5 or more individuals in a single location) that may exhibit signs of WNS, contact a wildlife professional in your state wildlife agency ( or contact your nearest USFWS Ecological Services Field Office ( Researchers, contact your state or federal agency for permitting requirements.. RECOMMENDED DECONTAMINATION PRODUCTS: The following chemical products were tested in a laboratory setting and were found to be particularly effective against killing the more resistant, spore-form of G.d., as well as the hyphae. 1. Lysol IC Quaternary Disinfectant Cleaner (0.3% quaternary ammonium compound minimum) - 1 part concentrate to 128 parts water or 1 ounce of concentrate per gallon of water; 2. Lysol All-purpose Professional Cleaner (0.3% quaternary ammonium compound minimum); 3. Formula 409 Antibacterial All-Purpose Cleaner (0.3% quaternary ammonium compound minimum); 4. A 10% solution of household bleach - 1 part bleach to 9 parts water (an estimate of 1:9 is insufficient); 5. Lysol Disinfecting Wipes; or 6. Boil submersible gear in water for 15 minutes BEFORE CAVING: In order to effectively reduce the risk of human transfer of G.d., it is imperative that you follow these decontamination procedures any time you plan cave visits, and under no circumstances should clothing, footwear or gear that was used in a WNS-affected state or region be used in a non-affected state. If gear cannot be thoroughly decontaminated or disposed of, we advise that you not enter caves or parts of caves requiring use of this gear. If gear can be thoroughly decontaminated and you must enter a cave, isolate and decontaminate these items after last exiting a cave. Gear should not be used in multiple caves in the same day unless the decontamination procedures below can be performed between each cave visit. AFTER EACH CAVE VISIT: Thoroughly scrape or brush off any dirt and mud from clothing, boots, and gear and then place them in a sealed plastic bag or plastic container with lid to be cleaned and disinfected off site. Outer clothing should be removed prior to entering a vehicle after/between a site visit. A clean change of clothing is recommended. To decontaminate clothing, footwear and gear, please follow the procedures listed below. For Submersible Gear (i.e. clothing and equipment that can be submerged without damage): Wash all clothing and any appropriate equipment in washing machine or by hand using conventional detergents. Use cold, warm, or hot water. Woolite fabric wash has been found to be highly effective for this procedure. Rinse thoroughly, and then follow by soaking for a minimum of 10 minutes in one of the decontaminating products above, then rinse and air dry. As an alternative to chemical products, boiling submersible gear at a fast boil for 15 minutes is also recommended, followed by air drying. For Non-submersible Gear (i.e. equipment that will be damaged by submersion): Clean thoroughly with soap and water, and then decontaminate by applying one of the recommended products above to the outside surface for a minimum of 10 minutes, then rinse and air dry. For Footwear: Where possible, rubber (wellington-type) caving boots (which withstand harsh decontaminating products and are easily cleaned) are recommended. Boots need to be fully scrubbed and rinsed to remove all soil and organic material. Decontaminate rubber and leather boots, (including soles and leather uppers) with a product listed above for a minimum of 10 minutes, then rinse and air dry. For Ropes and Harnesses: To date, only Sterling rope and webbing have proved to sustain no damage when using products above. Wash rope/webbing in a front loading washing machine on the gentle cycle using Woolite Extra Delicates detergent. Immerse in a dilution of Lysol IC Quaternary Disinfectant Cleaner for 15 minutes. Rinse twice in clean water and air dry. Brands of rope/webbing other than Sterling have not yet been tested for integrity after decontamination. Brands not tested should be dedicated to a single cave or not used at all. For Cameras and Electronic Equipment: If possible, do not bring electronic equipment into a cave. If practical, cameras and other similar equipment that must be brought to a cave may be placed in plastic casing (i.e. underwater camera housing) or wrapped in plastic wrap where only the lens is left unwrapped to allow for photos to be taken. The plastic wrap can then be decontaminated by using Lysol Disinfecting Wipes and discarded after use or wipes can be applied directly on camera surfaces or plastic casing. For Vehicles: In addition to gear, vehicles used to transport equipment can also harbor spores. Keep vehicles as clean as possible by storing gear in clean containers, and decontaminate those containers with your other equipment using the decontamination products above. Note: Protocol updated as of Please visit for updated materials and for comprehensive supplemental documents that detail decontamination procedures for 1. cavers, and 2. researchers.

52 APPENDIX B SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS

53 Photo 1. R. Sidner inventorying a new mine in July Photo 2. A tank offering water to cattle and wildlife near Sycamore Canyon. Tank is not well-suited for bats because of wood crossbeam creating an obstacle because bats drink while in flight and lack an escape ramp to reduce the chance of drowning. A dead skunk was found in the tank. Photo 3. An adult female Choeronycteris mexicana hanging with a nursing pup. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 1

54 Photo 4. A subadult Choeronycteris mexicana found during a mine visit on 7/14/11. The grey pelage and un-fused epiphyses are characteristic of a subadult. Photo 5. Insect packaging interspersed with guano pellets in Adit 38. Wings of moths and grasshoppers are often found below nightroosts as bats discard these parts when eating. Photo 6. R. Sidner in Adit 38 wearing a tyvek suit to reduce the chance of spreading the fungal disease, White Nose Syndrome, between mines where bats roost. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 2

55 Photo 7. Video camera set-up at the upper entrance to Adit 38/39. This entrance is funnel shaped. Photo 8. Detail of a Myotis thysanodes found in Rosemont Adit 40 on 7/14/11. Photo 9. Camera set-up to record the exit flight at Adit 37A - a Leptonycteris yerbabuenae day-roost. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 3

56 Photo 10. View of the intersection of Adit R37B with Adit R37A. Photo 11. Typical cross section of Adit R37A where thousands of Leptonycteris yerbabuenae dayroost in late summer. Photo 12. Two nectar bats found day-roosting in Adit R37C on 11/18/11. The upper bat is Choeronycteris mexicana and the lower is Leptonycteris yerbabuenae. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 4

57 Photo 13. Detail of dermestid larval casings found in Adit R37A. Photo 14. Video camera set-up at the entrance of Adit R38A. The equipment in the tree on the left is a bat detector used to record the ultrasonic calls of bats which can be species specific and allow us to determine which species are roosting in a mine during an exit flight. Photo 15. An unidentified species of spider found in Adit R38. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 5

58 Photo 16. A fully articulated javelina skeleton found in the bottom passage of Adit R38A. This room is significantly warmer and more humid than any other rooms in the site. Photo 17. A Myotis velifer in Adit R46. Photo 18. Entrance view of Adit R47. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 6

59 Photo 19. Logger in Adit R46. Photo 20. A Myotis thysanodes in Adit R46 hiding in a ceiling drill hole out of the airflow. Photo 21. Video camera set-up at Adit R46 to record the evening exit flight. This mine connects with Adit R47 making a complex mine system with lower cold moist passages and upper warm dry passages. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 7

60 Photo 22. Distinctive red and yellow nectar bat fecal material (splatter) found on the floor of Adit R38A. Photo 23. A Corynorhinus townsendii day-roosting in lower passage of Adit R38A in November This species was not previously documented from this mine. Photo 24. Two Myotis thysanodes hibernating in a ceiling hole in Adit R46. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 8

61 Photo 25. Detail of a Myotis velifer in Adit R46. Photo 26. A Myotis velifer found roosting in November 2011 in Adit R46. Photo 27. A small myotis (likely Myotis californicus) roosting in Adit R46. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 9

62 Photo 28. A Corynorhinus townsendii found in Adit R46. When this species is in deep torpor or hibernation, it curls its ears to reduce loss of heat and/or moisture. Photo 29. A Myotis velifer found hibernating in the cold humid section of Adit R46. Photo 30. A male Myotis velifer found in Adit R46. ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 10

63 Photo 31. Fully articulated bat found in Adit R46 in November The outline of the bat s body is clearly indicated in the muddy floor, including the tail membrane. Dr. Sidner identified the specimen as Eptesicus fuscus, a new (and 5 th ) bat species documented using this mine complex. Photo 32a. Details of the Eptesicus fuscus skull found in Adit R46 in November Photo 32b. Details of the Eptesicus fuscus skull found in Adit R46 in November ROSEMONT BATS 2011 Q:\Jobs\1000's\ \Task 300\Rosemont Bats 2011\Appendices\Appendix B - Photopages.docx SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS Photo Page 11