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4.7 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES <br /> of this key prey species abundance in an area. Several sightings of single hovering kites were made at <br /> various places along the lake basin-grassland edge, indicating that meadow voles may be particularly <br /> abundant. <br /> Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus) <br /> State Species of Concern. No Federal Listing <br /> This fast-flying, falcon-type raptor chases down and captures small birds near the ground, as well as <br /> rodents. Two of its preferred food items are the horned lark and the California ground squirrel, both of <br /> which were abundant in selected areas of the site. One prairie falcon was seen chasing western <br /> meadowlarks in the open grassland near the northern border of the site. This bird is a cliff nester, thus <br /> it is unlikely that any nesting occurs on the site. <br /> Western Pond Turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida) <br /> State Species of Concern. Priority 2. Federal Candidate 2 <br /> The draining of natural marshes and ponds coupled with the confinement of the Delta river systems has <br /> been responsible for the loss of this reptile's shallow shoreline foraging areas and sandy bank sites where <br /> it can dig egg deposition nests. It has declined steadily throughout California in recent years. This is <br /> especially disturbing since the western pond turtle is the only aquatic turtle in California and one of only <br /> two native turtles in the state. As previously reported, several specimens were observed in all three <br /> major aquatic habitats on the site. <br /> Habitat <br /> The Tracy Lakes are fully protected since they constitute critical habitat for migratory water birds under <br /> the Migratory Bird Conservation Act, 1929. <br /> IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES <br /> Project Description <br /> Development plans call for the deepening of Tracy Lakes to provide a year-around water source. The <br /> westerly end of South Tracy Lake would be deepened with two islands created for waterfowl nesting <br /> habitat. Seasonal wetlands would be managed through the use of weirs in the backwater stretches of <br /> South Tracy Lake. As the lake dries down, water would be pumped into these areas during the <br /> appropriate season, then allowed to dry out to provide food for other species. With the exception of one <br /> lot, all lots and the clubhouse would front portions of the two lakes. An existing trail through Brovelli <br /> Woods would be used for equestrain purposes. An 18-hole golf course is proposed over half of the 870- <br /> 4.7-24 <br />