Strict Project Deadline?
Know When To Schedule Your Focused Spring And Summer Surveys, And Avoid Expensive Project Delays
Our biologists conduct focused surveys based on current agency protocols or guidelines, providing baseline data for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), and California Endangered Species Act (CESA) biological documentation.
Many special-status plant and wildlife evaluations can be performed only within a tight window of opportunity. Preserve your project timeline with the help of a trusted group of biological professionals who are proud to maintain a reputation for superior standards.
Rare Plants
Current botanical survey protocols require identification of plants to a level necessary to determine its rarity and listing status. In some cases, characteristics that separate taxa are only visible at specific times of the year. Contact us to find out the best time to conduct plant surveys. MBI holds several CDFW Plant Voucher Collection permits.
Survey Window: February–September (depending on optimal flowering period of potentially occurring species; multiple site visits may be necessary)
Nesting Birds
Pre-construction nesting bird surveys are often a requirement of resource agency permits and site evaluations for biological resources. These surveys are the first step in implementing measures intended to keep your project in compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) if activities occur during nesting season.
Survey Window: February 1 – September 15
Blunt-nosed Leopard Lizard
In addition to being listed as endangered, BNLL is fully protected under California Fish and Game Code (CFGC) Section 5050. Under this section the fully protected designation means that incidental take cannot be allowed even with CESA and/or FESA permits. Capturing, injuring or killing individuals must be avoided without appropriate permits. In the range of the species, projects that will remove habitat may require surveys in the year prior to construction. If your project is within potential habitat for this species, start planning your focused surveys early.
Survey Window: April 15 – September 15 (following current agency protocols, multiple site visits are necessary); NOTE: To meet the protocol for complete surveys, contact us prior to May 1st.
Burrowing Owls
Burrowing owls are a state candidate species and are protected by the MBTA. The nesting season for this species is quite long (February through August), and several site visits should be conducted to determine habitat use. Under many circumstances, winter and nesting season surveys may be warranted.
Survey Window: February 1 – August 31 (nesting season)
San Joaquin kit fox
The San Joaquin kit fox has protection under both the FESA and the CESA. Dens, particularly their pupping sites, may be protected features. Den sites with pups require special protections, and activities are restricted as long as pups are dependent on adults. pupping season may extend from December through August. MBI biologists incorporate focused surveys for San Joaquin kit fox and pre-construction surveys as appropriate. Anticipating potential complications associated with this species is one key to successful project implementation.
Survey Window: All year, with emphasis on project planning from August 16 – October 31
Temblor legless lizard
As of 2022, the Temblor legless lizards was added as a candidate species under California Endangered Species Act (CESA). Surveys for this lizard can take three to five years before receiving results. Survey methods include installation of cover boards, typically between September and December, followed by monthly cover board checks from February to May. Surveys may need to be conducted over several years for results to be valid. MBI has permitted staff to conduct these surveys.
Survey Window: All year, with emphasis on project planning from June 1 - July 31