USFWS_Range-wide_IBat_&_NLEB_Survey_Guidelines_2022.03.29_0.pdf

RANGE-WIDE INDIANA BAT &

NORTHERN LONG-EARED BAT

SURVEY GUIDELINES

March 2022

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service i

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

OBJECTIVES

BACKGROUND

GENERAL PROCESS

PHASE 1. INITIAL PROJECT SCREENING

Step 1. Coordinate with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Field Office(s) regarding existing IBAT and/or NLEB summer and/or winter occurrence information

Step 2. Conduct Habitat Assessment

Step 3. Assess potential for adverse effects to IBAT and/or NLEBs

PHASE 2. SUMMER PRESENCE/ABSENCE SURVEYS (NETTING OR ACOUSTIC

SURVEYS)

Step 4. Conduct Mist-Netting Surveys following IBAT Recovery Unit-based and/or NLEB Protocols

Step 5. Conduct Acoustic Surveys

Step 6. Conduct Automated Acoustic Analyses for each site that had HF or Myotid calls from Step 5 or ALL sites if step 5 was not conducted

Step 7. Conduct Qualitative Analysis of Calls

PHASE 3. CONDUCT MIST-NETTING SURVEYS TO CAPTURE INDIANA and/or

NORTHERN LONG-EARED BATS

PHASE 4. CONDUCT RADIO-TRACKING AND EMERGENCE SURVEYS

PHASE 5. CONDUCT POTENTIAL HIBERNACULA SURVEYS

APPENDIX A: PHASE 1 HABITAT ASSESSMENTS

APPENDIX B: PHASE 2 OR PHASE 3 MIST–NETTING

APPENDIX C: PHASE 2 ACOUSTIC SURVEYS

APPENDIX D: PHASE 4 RADIO-TRACKING

APPENDIX E: PHASE 4 EMERGENCE SURVEYS

APPENDIX F: LINEAR PROJECT GUIDANCE

APPENDIX G: THE OUTER–TIER GUIDANCE

APPENDIX H: POTENTIAL HIBERNACULUM SURVEY GUIDANCE

Cover Photos/Graphics: Mike Coffey/USFWS, Kyle Edmonds/USFS, Mark Ford/USFS (USGS), Andrew King/USFWS, Keith Lott/USFWS, Alex Morrison/VA Tech, and Alex Silvis/VA Tech (WV DNR).

RANGE-WIDE INDIANA BAT & NORTHERN LONG-EARED

BAT SURVEY GUIDELINES

(modifications from the previous guidelines are in blue)

INTRODUCTION

The Indiana bat (IBAT) (Myotis sodalis) was originally listed as being in danger of extinction under the Endangered Species Preservation Act of 1966 (32 FR 4001, March 11, 1967), and is currently listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended. The northern long-eared bat (NLEB) (Myotis septentrionalis) was listed as threatened under the ESA on April 2, 2015. This survey protocol provides the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) recommended guidance on survey methods and outlines additional reporting requirements for surveyors.

The following guidance is designed to determine whether IBAT and/or NLEB are present1 or absent (P/A)2 at a given site during the summer (May 15 to August 15; Table 1) and/or during the winter (see Appendix H: potential bat hibernacula surveys). The phased-approach, which includes coordination with the USFWS3, habitat assessments, and acoustic, mist-net, radio-tracking, emergence, “outer-tier project”, and potential bat hibernacula surveys, supersedes all prior survey guidance for these two species. Future changes to this guidance may occur and will be posted on the USFWS IBAT and NLEB survey guidance website(s) by March 31st of each year. Before conducting surveys, please check this website to ensure use of the most current version of this document. The USFWS is currently transitioning to a new website platform. All USFWS survey guidance documents can now be found at https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/range-wide-indiana-bat-and-northern-long-eared-bat-survey-guidelines.

These protocols may be different from those designed for general bat monitoring as part of the North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat)4. NABat surveys may be thought of as similar to breeding bird surveys and are not project-specific surveys in most cases. Information from NABat surveys can be considered as part of “best available” information when assessing whether there is already some existing information on presence of IBAT or NLEB in the vicinity of a given project.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of IBAT and NLEB survey guidelines are to: (1) standardize range-wide survey procedures; (2) maximize the potential for detection/capture of IBAT and NLEB at a minimum acceptable level of effort (LOE); (3) make accurate presence/probable absence determinations; and

(4) aid in conservation efforts for the species’ by identifying areas where they are present.

1 The guidance is not intended to be rigorous enough to provide sufficient data to fully determine population size or structure.

2 Recognizing protocols are not 100% likely to detect IBAT and NLEB when present and identification errors may occur.

3 Coordinate with the appropriate state natural resource agencies and any involved federal agency(ies) whenever “USFWS” coordination is listed. USFWS FO(s) may direct project sponsors to state agencies for existing occurrence information. Coordinate with your local USFWS FO(s) to understand the process for their area of jurisdiction.

4 Loeb et al. 2015 available at https://www.nabatmonitoring.org https://www.fws.gov/species/cluster-bat-myotis-sodalis https://www.fws.gov/species/northern-bat-myotis-septentrionalis https://www.nabatmonitoring.org/

BACKGROUND

In 2011, the USFWS developed a multi-agency team to determine whether improvements could be made to the 2007 IBAT Mist-Net Protocols (USFWS 2007). The team included members from each of the four USFWS regions (Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest) where IBATs are known to occur, representatives of state natural resource agencies from three of those four regions (Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast), and representatives from three federal agencies (U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Department of Defense, and U.S. Forest Service). This initial team obtained informal peer review of the draft guidelines in February 2012, gathered additional information in 2012, and made a revised version available for public comment in 2013 [78 FR 1879, January 9, 2013, and 78 FR 9409, February 8, 2013]. The USFWS implemented the revised guidance in 2014. Since then, a smaller USFWS team has made any necessary revisions to the guidelines each year. The USGS conducted initial independent testing of automated acoustic software programs during the winter of 2014-15 and continues to test new versions of available software using software-testing procedures updated in January 20195.

We considered the best available information for all aspects of the guidance. For example, see our white paper6 and 2018 addendum outlining the methods used to determine the minimum IBAT LOE.

Our 2022 addendum provides the rationale for the NLEB minimum LOE for acoustic and mist-net surveys (previously we deferred to LOE used for IBAT). As we receive additional information, we may incorporate additional survey recommendations for the IBAT, NLEB, or other bat species in the future. The USFWS continues to partner with local, State, and Federal biologists; scientific and academic institutions; commercial organizations; and other interested parties to collect additional data on the distribution, ecology, and biology of the IBAT and NLEB and looks forward to receiving any additional pertinent information from partners.

GENERAL PROCESS

Indiana and/or NLEB surveys for some proposed projects will require modification (or clarification) of this guidance through coordination with the USFWS FO(s) responsible for the state(s) in which the project occurs7. If not already required by federal permit, federal action agencies and surveyors should develop a proposed survey study plan in coordination with the USFWS FO(s) so that all parties fully understand which methods will be deployed, what assumptions will be made, and what the various outcomes would be based on the results of each step. Project proponents are encouraged to coordinate with the USFWS FO(s) regarding when they may stop survey work at any point once an assumption or documentation of their targeted species presence occurs. Pre-survey coordination typically will preclude the need for subsequent reviews of intermediate steps by USFWS FO(s) during the busy field season. An online directory of USFWS FO(s) is available on the USFWS website. Unless otherwise agreed to by the USFWS, negative P/A survey results obtained using this guidance are valid for a minimum of five years8 from their completion unless new information (e.g., other nearby surveys) suggest otherwise. If survey results are older than 5 years, coordinate with the

5 Revised USFWS Software Testing Procedures are available on the USFWS website provided in the intro.

6 The white paper, 2018 and 2022 addenda are available on the USFWS website provided in the intro.

7 For example, project sponsors for large acreage and/or landscape-scale projects that do not result in permanent habitat loss and would not pose an ongoing threat of lethal take, especially those proposed by land management agencies, may work with local USFWS FOs to apply different scales of surveys (broad vs. project-level) or different types of surveys, such as long-term monitoring results (e.g., forest-wide acoustic transect data) and/or targeted survey efforts (e.g., sub-sampling of large project areas), to address P/A concerns.

8 The timeframe may be reduced if significant habitat changes have occurred in the area or increased based on local information.

USFWS FO(s) to discuss if additional surveys are needed. If not already required by federal permit, submit all results (negative or positive) from any phase to the USFWS FO(s) you have been in coordination with. We strongly encourage this coordination as it improves the USFWS’ understanding of (1) the level of survey effort underway and (2) the distribution of the species. A single report can be submitted at the end of all phases conducted for a given project.

USFWS FO-level coordination is also important during the survey planning process. The guidelines that are described in this document are designed to be implemented in typical habitats that are conducive to the standard survey techniques described herein. However, the USFWS recognizes that occasionally there may be some site-specific conditions in summer habitats or at potential hibernacula sites that do not lend themselves to being surveyed using the standard survey options (e.g., mist nets, acoustic detectors, or harp traps) even though a site may otherwise meet the definition of suitable IBAT and/or NLEB habitat. Therefore, we strongly encourage coordination with the FO(s) prior to using methods that may not be appropriate for site-specific habitat conditions.

Because surveys that result in the capture of IBAT and/or NLEB result in take, such surveys should only be conducted by a qualified biologist9. Generally, a recovery permit for the IBAT and NLEB authorizes the capture of bats for identification, and handling of bats for measurements, photography, banding, and radio transmitter attachment; some (but not all) may also authorize entry into potential hibernacula to conduct internal surveys and other study-specific collection. Following this survey guidance will meet standard USFWS requirements; however, surveyors also need to ensure they meet all applicable state permitting and reporting requirements. Failure to follow the survey guidance, as written, and/or failure to follow a study plan which has received concurrence from the local USFWS FO(s), may result in a USFWS FO requesting additional survey effort.

The following provides a step-by-step outline of how IBAT and/or NLEB summer surveys and/or potential hibernacula surveys should be conducted. Some of these steps can occur concurrently.

NOTE: Advantages (or disadvantages) of targeting the NLEB in surveys should be discussed with the USFWS FO(s). However, if specifically targeting both the IBAT and NLEB, make sure to use the higher minimum LOE for chosen survey methods (e.g., NLEB range-wide acoustic or mist-netting LOE, also see 2022 Addendum) to ensure it meets the needs for both species.

PHASE 1 – INITIAL PROJECT SCREENING

Step 1. Coordinate with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Field Office(s)10 regarding existing IBAT and/or NLEB summer and/or winter occurrence information. [Projects located within known IBAT and/or NLEB summer habitat and/or known hibernacula/spring-staging/fall swarming zones will not proceed to Phase 2 of this process unless the project meets the definition of an “outer-tier project” outlined in Appendix G.]

a) If a project (located within or outside of a known maternity colony home range or spring-staging/fall-swarming zone of a known hibernaculum) is already covered under an

9 A qualified biologist is an individual who holds a USFWS Recovery Permit (Federal Fish and Wildlife Permit) for IBAT and/or NLEB in the state/region in which they are surveying and/or has been authorized by the appropriate state agency to net and handle IBAT and/or NLEB. Several USFWS offices maintain lists of qualified bat surveyors, and if working in one of those states with authorizations in lieu of a Recovery Permits, the individual will either need to be on that list or submit qualifications to receive USFWS approval prior to conducting any field work.

10 Coordinate with the appropriate state natural resource agencies and any involved Federal Action agencies whenever “USFWS” coordination is listed. USFWS FO(s) may direct project sponsors to state agencies for existing occurrence information. Coordinate with your local USFWS FO(s) to understand the process for their area of jurisdiction.

existing Endangered Species Act (ESA) incidental take authorization (e.g., HCP, BO), then no further summer and/or potential hibernacula surveys are needed, follow the procedures previously authorized by the USFWS FO(s).

b) If there are known IBAT or NLEB occurrences (e.g., known roost trees, capture locations, foraging locations or hibernacula) within the project action area11; OR if there are no known IBAT or NLEB summer or spring/fall/winter occurrences within the proposed project area itself, but the project area is located within a known maternity colony home range and/or the spring-staging and fall-swarming zone of a known hibernaculum12; OR if the project is located outside a known maternity colony home range and/or spring-staging and fall-swarming zone of a hibernaculum but is within the range of the IBAT and/or NLEB (note this can change over time), then proceed to Step 2.

Step 2. Conduct Habitat Assessment (Desktop or Field-based; see Appendix A and Appendix H).

a) If suitable summer habitat and/or a potential hibernaculum (a) is present within the action area, then proceed to Step 3.

b) If both suitable summer and winter habitat (i.e., potential hibernaculum) are absent within the action area, then no further P/A surveys are recommended; however, additional coordination with the USFWS FO(s) may be recommended if IBAT and/or NLEB may be present in an action area during other seasons (e.g., spring and fall migration) and may be affected by the proposed project.

Step 3. Assess potential for adverse effects to IBAT and/or NLEBs

a) If the project is not anticipated to result in adverse effects to IBAT and/or NLEB (as proposed), then no further summer and/or potential hibernacula surveys are recommended, coordinate with the USFWS FO(s).

b) If the project may result in adverse effect to IBAT and/or NLEB, but impacts can be adequately assessed and conservation measures can be designed to minimize those effects without additional P/A information (this includes all proposed projects within known summer maternity colony home ranges and /or at known hibernacula and their surrounding spring-staging and fall-swarming zones, but may include other areas as well), then no further surveys are recommended. Coordinate with the USFWS FO(s) regarding an assessment of the project’s potential effects, development of conservation measures, determination of the need for any ESA incidental take authorization, and discussion of value of additional surveys.

c) If the project does not meet the conditions of 3a or 3b, then proceed to Phase 2 and/or

11 The “action area” is defined as all areas to be affected directly or indirectly by the Federal action and not merely the immediate area involved in the action. [50 CFR Section 402.02] 12 See USFWS IBAT Section 7 and Section 10 Guidance for Wind Energy Projects (Questions 4 & 5) on the USFWS website provided in the intro

Phase 5.

PHASE 2 – SUMMER PRESENCE/ABSENCE SURVEYS (NETTING OR

ACOUSTIC SURVEYS)13

Presence/probable absence (P/A) of IBAT and/or NLEB may be determined by conducting either Step 4 (mist netting; see Appendix B) or Step 5 (acoustics; see Appendix C) as outlined below. As long as the project area contains habitat that is appropriate to conduct either survey method, it is the project proponent’s choice as to which option to use, for each survey area unit (i.e., ≤123-acre area or 1-km section of linear project). A combined mist-netting and acoustic approach is acceptable;

however, the minimum LOE must be met for at least one of the methods. Under no scenario can a project proponent use either mist-netting or acoustic Phase 2 surveys to challenge the other methods results. The USFWS accepts the results of either option and has no preference for methods. The USFWS FO(s) can discuss pros and cons of different approaches depending on project sponsor needs and project-specific habitat conditions. For example, a project area may not have suitable conditions for a mist net survey and an acoustic survey may be the only appropriate method for establishing presence/probable absence. It is up to the surveyor to determine whether the habitat on-site has the appropriate habitat for the survey method chosen prior to the survey and to coordinate with the FO(s) if issues arise with the method chosen and need to be reconsidered.

However, acoustics at the Phase 2 level of effort (LOE) (or otherwise agreed to with the USFWS FO) may be used as a coarse screening tool for conducting subsequent mist-netting at the Phase 2 LOE.

For example, if NO high frequency (HF) calls (≥35 kHz) are detected, then no netting is required within that 123-acre (non-linear) or 1-km (linear) survey area due to the probable IBAT and/or NLEB absence. If ANY HF calls are detected, then mist-net at the Phase 2 LOE. Any project study plan that includes use of both acoustics and netting needs to be written clearly to avoid potential misunderstandings between the project proponent and the USFWS FO.

Also, Phase 2 acoustic results should be used to inform whether, when, and where to conduct any optional Phase 3 mist-netting. In this case, acoustics is the P/A method and if probable presence is detected (HF screen, automated/MLE, or manual vetting), then IBAT and/or NLEB probable presence is established. Negative results from follow-up mist-netting (at any LOE) does not refute a previously established positive acoustic result. The goal of Phase 3 netting is simply to verify where IBAT and/or NLEB(s) are active and to capture and track individuals to document roost trees and population size to further inform consultation or coordination under the ESA.

The summer survey season is from 15 May through 15 August14 for either survey option. All presence/absence surveys should be completed by August 15 unless otherwise indicated by USFWS FO14. The minimum prescribed survey level of effort for any given survey area unit (i.e., ≤123-acre area or 1-km section of linear project) cannot be completed in a single calendar night regardless of which survey method (netting or acoustic) is used (i.e., minimum survey effort must be spread over at least 2 calendar nights with suitable weather conditions). If netting is chosen as the preferred P/A

13 NOTE: acoustic and/or mist-net surveys should be conducted in the best suitable habitat possible for each survey type to increase the likelihood of detecting/capturing IBAT and/or NLEB. In some cases, the most suitable habitat for effectively conducting surveys may occur outside a project site boundary and may be sampled if landowner permission is available.

For projects with multiple survey areas (e.g., >123 acres or >1 km), survey methods may be interchanged. For example, acoustics could be used for one 123-acre survey area and netting could be used for another 123-acre area.

14 With prior USFWS FO approval, a survey may be completed after August 15 if it was initiated in time to be completed by August 15 and extenuating weather circumstances resulted in delaying completion. Delays as a result of not meeting the acceptable weather requirements are the ONLY valid justification for surveying after August 15. If tracking is proposed, surveys should be scheduled so that tracking is concluded prior to August 15.

method and an IBAT and/or NLEB is captured, then surveyors may immediately begin Phase 4/radio-tracking. Project proponents must decide whether they will proceed to Phase 4 in coordination with the USFWS FO before any mist netting occurs. Submit Phase 2 study plans to USFWS FO prior to conducting surveys for their review and site-specific authorization.

Step 4. Conduct Mist-Netting Surveys following IBAT Recovery Unit-based and/or NLEB Protocols15

(See Figures 1 - 4 and Appendix B)

Northeast and Appalachia IBAT Recovery Units (CT, DE, MA, MD, NC, NJ, PA, eastern TH, WV, VA, VT):

Linear projects: a minimum of 10 net nights per km (0.6 miles) of suitable summer habitat (see Appendix F).

Non-linear projects: a minimum of 42 net nights per 123 acres (0.5 km2) of suitable summer habitat.

For example:

• 7 sites, 2 nets/site for 3 calendar nights = 42 net nights

• 7 sites, 3 nets/site for 2 calendar nights = 42 net nights

• 3 sites, 2 nets/site for 7 calendar nights* = 42 net nights

The sampling period for each net shall begin at sunset16 and continue for at least 5 hours (longer survey periods may also improve success).

*Maximum of 3 nights of consecutive netting at any given net location. After 2 consecutive nights of netting at the same location without capturing target species, you must change net locations or wait at least 2 calendar nights before resuming netting at the same location.

a) If no capture of IBAT(s), then no further summer surveys are recommended17.

a) If capture of IBAT(s), then stop or proceed to Phase 4 as previously decided in coordination with the FO.

Midwest and Ozark-Central IBAT Recovery Units (AL, AR, IA, IL, IN, GA, KY, MI, MO, MS, OH, OK, central & western TN, and Lee County, VA):

15 The IBAT populations in the Northeast and Appalachia Recovery Units have been most heavily impacted by white-nose syndrome to date; therefore, we recommend higher survey effort when compared to the Midwest and Ozark-Central Recovery Units. We have no recommendations for reducing the minimum level of effort required to demonstrate probable absence for projects <123 acres in size. Level of effort is based on detection probabilities and occupancy estimates that were derived from past survey efforts that used the same acreage threshold. Level of effort is designed to reach 90% confidence in negative survey results (see Niver et al. 2014).

16 Surveys may need to start a little earlier or later than official sunset times (i.e., at “dusk”) in some settings such as a deep/dark forested valleys or ridge tops to avoid missing early flying bats or capturing late-flying birds, respectively.

Sunset tables for the location of survey can be found at: https://sunrise-sunset.org 17 NOTE: For Phase 2 Presence/Absence Surveys, wherever the phrase “no further summer surveys are recommended” occurs within this document, the USFWS FO(s) is in affect assuming probable absence of IBAT and/or NLEB.

https://sunrise-sunset.org/

Linear projects: a minimum of 2 net nights per km (0.6 miles) of suitable summer habitat (see Appendix F).

Non-linear projects: a minimum of 9 net nights per 123 acres (0.5 km2) of suitable summer habitat.

For Example:

• 3 sites, 1 net/site for 3 calendar nights = 9 net nights

• 1 site, 3 nets/site for 3 calendar nights = 9 net nights

The sampling period for each net shall begin at sunset18 and continue for at least 5 hours (longer survey periods may also improve success).

*Maximum of 3 nights of consecutive netting at any given net location. After 2 consecutive nights of netting at the same location without capturing target species, you must change net locations or wait at least 2 calendar nights before resuming netting at the same location.

a) If no capture of IBAT(s), then no further summer surveys are recommended.

b) If capture of IBAT(s), then stop or proceed to Phase 4 as previously decided in coordination with the FO.

Range-wide NLEB Mist-netting LOE:

Linear projects: a minimum of 4 net nights per km (0.6 miles) of suitable summer habitat (see Appendix F).

Non-linear projects: a minimum of 16 net nights per 123 acres (0.5 km2) of suitable summer habitat.

For Example:

• 4 sites, 2 net/site for 2 calendar nights = 16 net nights

• 8 sites, 2 nets/site for 1 calendar nights = 16 net nights

The sampling period for each net shall begin at sunset19 and continue for at least 5 hours (longer survey periods may also improve success).

*Maximum of 3 nights of consecutive netting at any given net location. After 2 consecutive nights of netting at the same location without capturing target species, you must change net locations or wait at least 2 calendar nights before resuming netting at the same location.

a) If no capture of NLEB(s), then no further summer surveys are recommended.

18 Surveys may need to start a little earlier or later than official sunset times (i.e., at “dusk”) in some settings such as a deep/dark forested valleys or ridge tops to avoid missing early flying bats or capturing late-flying birds, respectively.

Sunset tables for the location of survey can be found at: https://sunrise-sunset.org 19 Surveys may need to start a little earlier or later than official sunset times (i.e., at “dusk”) in some settings such as a deep/dark forested valleys or ridge tops to avoid missing early flying bats or capturing late-flying birds, respectively.

Sunset tables for the location of survey can be found at: https://sunrise-sunset.org

b) If capture of NLEB(s), then stop or proceed to Phase 4 as previously decided in coordination with the FO.

OR

Step 5. Conduct Acoustic Surveys20 (see Figures 1 - 4 and Appendix C)

IBAT Acoustic LOE (Range-wide)

Linear projects: a minimum of 4 detector nights per km (0.6 miles) of suitable summer habitat (see Appendix F).

Non-linear projects: a minimum of 10 detector nights per 123 acres (0.5 km2) of suitable summer habitat.

At least 2 detector locations per 123 acre "site" shall be sampled until at least 8 detector nights has been completed over the course of at least 2 calendar nights (may be consecutive).

For example:

• 5 detectors for 2 nights each (can sample the same location or move within the site)

• 2 detectors for 5 nights each (can sample the same location or move within the site)

• 1 detector for 10 nights (must sample at least 2 locations and move within the site

– we recommend evenly distributing LOE among locations)

NLEB Acoustic LOE (Range-wide)

Linear projects: a minimum of 4 detector nights per km (0.6 miles) of suitable summer habitat (see Appendix F).

Non-linear projects: a minimum of 14 detector nights per 123 acres (0.5 km2) of suitable summer habitat.

At least 2 detector locations per 123 acre "site" shall be sampled until at least 14 detector nights has been completed over the course of at least 2 calendar nights (may be consecutive).

For example:

• 4 detectors for 3 nights and 1 detector for 2 nights each (can sample the same location or move within the site)

• 2 detectors for 7 nights each (can sample the same location or move within the site)

20 Acoustic surveys are available as a Presence/Absence option throughout the range of both species (i.e., Northeast, Appalachian, Midwest, and Ozark-Central IBAT Recovery Units; range-wide NLEB).

• 1 detector for 14 nights (must sample at least 2 locations and move within the site

– we recommend evenly distributing LOE among locations)

The acoustic sampling period for each site must begin at sunset21 and end at sunrise each night of sampling. It is the responsibility of the surveyor to ensure detector functioned for the set recording duration.

NOTE: Optional coarse screening - for high frequency (HF) or myotid calls (depending on available H/L frequency filters) or Proceed to Step 6

i) If no positive detection of HF calls22 (≥35 kHz) or myotid calls, no further summer surveys recommended.

ii) If positive detection of HF or myotid calls, then

(a) proceed to Step 6 for further acoustic analysis; OR

(b) assume presence of Indiana bats and coordinate with the USFWS FO(s); OR

(c) assume presence and proceed to Phase 3.

Step 6. Conduct Automated Acoustic Analyses for each site that had HF or Myotid calls from Step 5 or ALL sites if step 5 was not conducted.

(NOTE: cannot skip this step and proceed directly to Step 7)

Use one or more of the currently available ‘approved’ acoustic bat ID programs23 (use most current approved software versions available and manufacturer’s recommended settings for IBAT and/or NLEB P/A surveys). ‘Candidate’ programs are not yet approved by USFWS for stand-alone use for P/A surveys but may be used in conjunction with one or more of the approved programs. Include your plans for which specific software program(s) you will use in your survey study plan and submit for USFWS FO(s) review prior to conducting surveys.

Beginning with acoustic data from night one at each acoustic site, run each night’s data for each site through your chosen ID program(s). Review results by site by night from each acoustic ID program used24.

a) If IBAT and NLEB presence is considered unlikely by all the approved and candidate program(s) used in analysis, then no further summer surveys recommended.

b) If IBAT and/or NLEB presence is considered likely at one or more sites on one or more nights by any approved or candidate program(s) used in analysis, then

i) proceed to Step 7 for qualitative ID; OR

ii) assume presence of IBAT and/or NLEB and coordinate with the USFWS

FO(s); OR

iii) assume presence and proceed to Phase 3.

21 Surveys may need to start a little earlier or later than official sunset times (i.e., at “dusk”) in some settings such as a deep/dark forested valleys or ridge tops to avoid missing early flying bats or capturing late-flying birds, respectively.

Sunset tables for the location of survey can be found at: https://sunrise-sunset.org 22 HF calls are defined as individual call pulses whose minimum frequency is ≥35 kHz.

23 Approved and candidate programs are listed on the USFWS website provided in the intro.

24 The approved acoustic identification programs all have implemented a maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) at this time. If the analysis of collected calls at a given site on a given night results in the probable presence of IBAT or NLEB with high levels of certainty (P<0.05), then select one of the options available in Step 6b.

Step 7. Conduct Qualitative Analysis of Calls.

At a minimum, for each detector site/night a program considered IBAT and/or NLEB presence likely (from MLE results) review all files (including no IDs) from that site/night.

Qualitative analysis25 (i.e., manual vetting) must also include a comparison of the results of each acoustic ID program by site and night (see Reporting Requirements in Appendix C).

a) If no visual confirmation of probable IBAT and NLEB, then no further summer surveys recommended26.

b) If visual confirmation of probable IBAT and/or NLEB, then

i) assume presence of IBAT and/or NLEB and coordinate with the USFWS FO(s); OR

ii) assume presence and proceed to Phase 3.

PHASE 3. CONDUCT MIST-NETTING SURVEYS TO CAPTURE

INDIANA and/or NORTHERN LONG-EARED BATS.

If netting was not conducted as the P/A method, then netting may be conducted in Phase 3 to capture and characterize (e.g., sex, age, reproductive condition) the IBAT and/or NLEB that are present in an area and to facilitate Phase 4 efforts. We encourage working with the FOs to develop Phase 3 netting plans based on best available information (e.g., positive acoustic locations). There are no minimum requirements for this phase as this is not a P/A phase.

a) If no IBAT and/or NLEB are captured, then coordinate with the USFWS FO.

b) If IBAT and/or NLEB are captured, then proceed to Phase 4.

PHASE 4. CONDUCT RADIO-TRACKING AND EMERGENCE

SURVEYS (See Appendices D and E).

PHASE 5. CONDUCT POTENTIAL HIBERNACULA SURVEYS

(See Appendix H)

25 Qualitative analysis of each acoustic site and night with probable detections of IBAT or NLEB during Step 6 must include the entire night’s high-frequency call data and not just those files making it through the acoustic analysis tools as probable IBAT or NLEB.

26 If you identify any suspected mis-identifications from programs, the Service will share those results with the software manufacturer(s) and the USGS to assist with future improvements and testing of software.

REFERENCES

Amelon, S.K. 2007. Multi-scale factors influencing detection, site occupancy, and resource use by foraging bats in the Ozark Highlands of Missouri. PhD Dissertation. University of Missouri

– Columbia.

Duchamp, J.E., M. Yates, R. Muzika, and R.K. Swihart. 2006. Estimating probabilities of detection for bat echolocation calls: an application of the double-observer method. Wildlife Society Bulletin 34(2):408-412.

Loeb, S.C., T.J. Rodhouse, L.E. Ellison, C.L. Lausen, J.D. Reichard, K.M. Irvine, T.E. Ingersoll, J.T.H. Coleman, W.E. Thogmartin, J.R. Sauer, C.M. Francis, M.L. Bayless, T.R. Stanley, and D.H. Johnson. 2015. A plan for the North American Bat Monitoring Program (NABat).

General Technical Report SRS-208. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Southern Research Station. 112 p.

Niver, R.A., R.A. King, M.P. Armstrong, and W.M. Ford. 2014. Methods to Evaluate and Develop Minimum Recommended Summer Survey Effort for Indiana Bats: White Paper. Accessed 13 January 2014 and available on the USFWS website provided in the intro

Niver, R.A., R.A. King, M.P. Armstrong, and W.M. Ford. 2018. Addendum 1 - Methods to Evaluate and Develop Minimum Recommended Summer Survey Effort for Indiana Bats: White Paper.

Accessed 2 February 2022 and available on the USFWS website provided in the intro

Armstrong, M.P., R.A. King, R.A. Niver, J. Utrup, V. Kuczynska, E.D. Thorne, J. De La Cruz, S.M.

Deeley, K.M. Gorman W.M. Ford and R.E. Russell. 2022. Addendum 2 – An Update to the Indiana Bat Summer Survey Level of Effort Trigger and Inclusion of Minimum Recommended Effort for Northern Long-eared Bats. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 3, Bloomington, MN. 17 pp. Available on the USFWS website provided in the intro

Romeling, S., C.R. Allen, and L. Robbins. 2012. Acoustically detecting Indiana bats: how long does it take? Bat Research News 53(4):51-58.

Yates, M.D. and R.M. Muzika. 2006. Effect of forest structure and fragmentation on site occupancy of bat species in Missouri Ozark forests. Journal of Wildlife Management 70(5):1238-1248

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2007. Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalis) Draft Recovery Plan:

First Revision. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Fort Snelling, MN. 91 pp.

TABLE 1. Standard survey seasons for conducting P/A surveys for IBAT and/or NLEB.

IBAT & NLEB Survey Seasons Internal (IBAT) Winter Hibernacula Surveys1,2

Acceptable survey window (1 Jan. - 28 Feb.)

Traditional survey window of known sites (15 Jan. - 15 Feb.)

Spring & Fall Surveys at Entrances of Potential Hibernacula 3,4

Acceptable survey window (1 - 21 Apr. & 15 Sep. - 31 Oct.)

Summer Surveys of Suitable Summer Habitat 5

Acceptable survey window (15 May - 15 Aug.)

Optimal survey window (1 Jun. - 31 Jul.) 6,7

1 visual and photographic surveys conducted within known and/or potential hibernacula (if deemed safe to enter).

2 internal winter hibernacula surveys are seldom appropriate for NLEB as they typically fail to reliably detect and accurately enumerate the species when present.

3 conducted using harp traps or mist nets at cave/mine entrances.

4 if State/USFWS FO approve, spring and fall survey windows can "drift" a bit earliler or later to better accommodate prevailing weather patterns and/or climate conditions in the location of the proposed survey. For example, the fall survey window in nothern portions of the IBAT or NLEB range may begin on or after 1 Sep. and end prior to 31 Oct. pending local State and FO approval. Likewise, if agencies approve, spring surveys of potential hibernacula may be pushed back/extended a few days or longer due to an extended period of unseasonably cold spring weather.

5 conducted using mist nets or acoustic detectors deployed within suitable flight corridors and foraging areas.

6 the middle of the maternity season (June and July) is considered by many to the best or "optimal" time to capture resident bats.

7 due to concerns with transmission of white-nose syndrome, some USFWS FO(s) and state natural resource agencies have delayed the start of the bat summer field survey season/mist-netting until June 1. Surveyors/applicants should always coordinate with local USFWS FO(s) and state natural resource agencies to confirm acceptable dates before beginning surveys.

SEP OCT NOV DECJAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG

FIGURE 1. Minimum survey level of effort for mist netting and/or acoustic options for linear projects by IBAT recovery unit.

FIGURE 2. Minimum survey level of effort for mist netting and/or acoustic options for non-linear projects by IBAT recovery unit.

FIGURE 3. Minimum survey level of effort for mist netting and/or acoustic options for linear projects targeting NLEB.

FIGURE 4. Minimum survey level of effort for mist netting and/or acoustic options for non-linear projects targeting NLEB.

TABLE 2. Summary of current survey LOEs for IBAT and NLEB.

Species Region Linear (per km)

Non-Linear (per 123 ac.)

Linear (per km)

Non-Linear (per 123 ac.)

Northeast & Appalachia RUs 10 42

Midwest & Ozark- Central RUs 2 9

NLEB Range-wide 4 16 4 14

IBAT

MIST NETTING

(net nights)

ACOUSTICS

(detector nights)

APPENDIX A: PHASE 1 HABITAT ASSESSMENTS

Summer habitat and potential hibernacula assessments are Step 2 of Phase 1- Initial Project Screening. The information below is provided to assist applicants, consultants, and/or project proponents (hereinafter termed the “applicant”) in establishing whether surveys for IBAT and/or NLEB should be conducted. As a reminder, the first step for determining presence of IBAT and/or NLEB at a given site is to determine whether there is any existing occurrence data available for the vicinity of the project from the local USFWS FO. This step can be conducted remotely via a desktop analysis (e.g., use of aerial photography to assess the potential presence of suitable summer habitat).

The applicant is responsible for developing and providing sufficient information as to whether suitable summer habitat and/or potential hibernacula exist within a proposed project area. If suitable habitat is present, the applicant should calculate the amount and submit this to the USFWS FO(s) and determine the need for any presence/absence surveys (Phase 2). NOTE: if IBAT and/or NLEB are present or assumed to be present during any phase, more detailed habitat information may be necessary to adequately assess the potential for impacts (see attached example Bat Habitat Assessment Datasheet). If no suitable habitat is present or it is determined through discussions with USFWS FO(s) that no adverse effects are anticipated from the proposed project, no surveys are recommended to assess risk during the summer. Habitat assessments for IBAT and/or NLEB can be completed any time of year and applicants are encouraged to submit results and proposed Phase 2 study plans well in advance of the summer survey season.

PERSONNEL

Habitat assessments should be completed by individuals with a natural resource degree or equivalent work experience.

DEFINITION FOR POTENTIALLY SUITABLE INDIANA BAT SUMMER HABITAT

Suitable summer habitat for IBAT consists of a wide variety of forested/wooded habitats where they roost, forage, and travel and may also include some adjacent and interspersed non-forested habitats27 such as emergent wetlands and adjacent edges of agricultural fields, old fields and pastures. This includes forests and woodlots containing potential roosts (i.e., live trees and/or snags ≥5 inches dbh28 (12.7 centimeter) that have exfoliating bark, cracks, crevices, and/or hollows), as well as linear features such as fencerows, riparian forests, and other wooded corridors. These wooded areas may be dense or loose aggregates of trees with variable amounts of canopy closure. Individual trees may be considered suitable habitat when they exhibit the characteristics of a potential roost tree and are located within 1,000 feet (305 meters) of other forested/wooded habitat.

27 Non-forested habitats typically should be excluded from acreages used to establish a minimum level of survey effort for Phase 2 surveys.

28 While trees <5 inches (<12.7 cm) dbh that have exfoliating bark, cracks, crevices, and/or hollows may have some potential to be male IBAT summer roosting habitat, the USFWS does not consider early successional, even-aged stands of trees <5 inches dbh to be suitable roosting habitat for the purposes of this guidance. Suitable roosting habitat is defined as forest patches with trees of 5-inch (12.7 cm) dbh or larger. However, early successional habitat with small diameter trees may be used as foraging habitat by IBATs. Therefore, a project that would remove or otherwise adversely affect ≥20 acres of early successional habitat containing trees between 3 and 5 inches (7.6-12.7 cm) dbh would require coordination/consultation with the USFWS FO to ensure that associated impacts would not rise to the level of take. The USFWS may request P/A surveys if >20 acres of early successional habitat were proposed for removal.

Indiana bats have also been observed roosting in human-made structures, such as bridges and bat houses (artificial roost structures); therefore, these structures should also be considered potential summer habitat29. We recommend that project proponents or their representatives coordinate with the appropriate USFWS Field Office to more clearly define suitable habitat for their region as some differences in state/regional suitability criteria may be warranted (e.g., high-elevation areas may be excluded as suitable habitat in some states).

Examples of unsuitable habitat:

• Individual trees that are greater than 1,000 feet from forested/wooded areas;

• Trees found in highly developed urban areas (e.g., street trees, downtown areas); and

• A pure stand of less than 3-inch dbh30 trees that are not mixed with larger trees.

DEFINITION FOR POTENTIALLY SUITABLE NORTHERN LONG-EARED BAT

SUMMER HABITAT

Suitable summer habitat for the NLEB consists of a wide variety of forested/wooded habitats where they roost, forage, and travel and may also include some adjacent and interspersed non-forested habitats such as emergent wetlands and adjacent edges of agricultural fields, old fields and pastures.

This includes forests and woodlots containing potential roosts (i.e., live trees and/or snags ≥3 inches dbh that have exfoliating bark, cracks, crevices, and/or cavities), as well as linear features such as fencerows, riparian forests, and other wooded corridors. These wooded areas may be dense or loose aggregates of trees with variable amounts of canopy closure. NLEBs are nocturnal foragers and use hawking (catching insects in flight) and gleaning (picking insects from surfaces) behaviors in conjunction with passive acoustic cues (Nagorsen and Brigham 1993, p. 88; Ratcliffe and Dawson 2003, p. 851). NLEB seem to prefer intact mixed-type forests with small gaps (i.e., forest trails, small roads, or forest-covered creeks) in forest with sparse or medium vegetation for foraging and commuting rather than fragmented habitat or areas that have been clear cut (USFWS 2015, p.

17992). Individual trees may be considered suitable habitat when they exhibit characteristics of suitable roost trees and are within 1,000 feet of other forested/wooded habitat31. The NLEB has also been observed roosting in human-made structures, such as buildings, barns, bridges, and bat houses;

therefore, these structures should also be considered potential summer habitat32. NLEBs typically

29 If human-made structures are present within your project area and are proposed to be removed or modified, see Appendix E (Emergence Surveys) and then coordinate with the local USFWS FO(s) regarding how to determine presence/absence.

30 Suitable roosting habitat is defined as forest patches with trees of 5-inch (12.7 cm) dbh or larger. However, early successional habitat with small diameter trees may be used as foraging habitat by IBAT. Therefore, a project that would remove or otherwise adversely affect ≥20 acres of early successional habitat containing trees between 3 and 5 inches (7.6-

12.7 cm) dbh would require coordination/consultation with the USFWS FO to ensure that associated impacts would not rise to the level of take. The USFWS may request P/A surveys if >20 acres of early successional habitat were proposed for removal.

31 This number is based on observations of bat behavior indicating that such an isolated tree (i.e., ≥1000 feet) would be extremely unlikely to be used as a roost. This distance has also been evaluated and vetted for use for the NLEB. See the “Indiana bat Section 7 and Section 10 Guidance for wind Energy Projects,” question 33, found on the USFWS website provided in the intro.

32 Trees found in highly-developed urban areas (e.g., street trees, downtown areas) are extremely unlikely to be suitable habitat.

occupy their summer habitat from mid-May through mid-August each year33 and the species may arrive or leave some time before or after this period.

Examples of unsuitable habitat:

• Individual trees that are greater than 1,000 feet from forested/wooded areas;

• Trees found in highly-developed urban areas (e.g., street trees, downtown areas); and

• A pure stand of less than 3-inch dbh trees that are not mixed with larger trees.

SUBMISSION OF PHASE 1 HABITAT ASSESSMENT & PHASE 2 AND/OR PHASE 5

STUDY PLAN (IF NEEDED)

If a proposed project may affect (positively or negatively) IBAT and/or NLEB and the conditions outlined in Step 3 a or b are not met, a habitat assessment report should be submitted to the appropriate USFWS FO(s) (and/or to the lead Federal Action Agency, such as the USACE, as appropriate) along with a draft study plan for the Phase 2 (acoustic or netting) and/or Phase 5 (potential hibernaculum) survey(s) (if suitable habitat(s) is present). Complete Phase 1 reports will include the following:

1. Full names and relevant titles/qualifications of individuals (e.g., John E. Smith, Biologist II, State University, B.S. Wildlife Science 2007) completing the habitat assessment and when the assessment was conducted

2. A map and latitude/longitude or UTM clearly identifying the project location (or approximate center point) and boundaries

3. A detailed project description (if available)

4. Documentation of any known/occupied spring staging, summer, fall swarming, and/or winter habitat for IBAT and/or NLEB within or near the project area

5. A description of methods used during the habitat assessment

6. A summary of the assessment findings and a completed Bat Summer Habitat Assessment Datasheet (see example below; use of this datasheet is optional)

7. Other information that may have a bearing on use of the project area (e.g., presence of fall or winter habitat [caves, crevices, fissures, or sinkholes, or abandoned mines of any kind], bridges and other non-tree potential summer roosts.)

8. A Phase 1 Habitat Assessment on all potential hibernacula that could be affected by the proposed project (see Appendix H for additional instructions for completing this assessment and sample datasheet), if necessary

9. Any other information requested by the local USFWS FO(s) related to the project

In addition, Phase 2 Study Plans should contain the following:

1. A statement as to which type of P/A surveys will be conducted (i.e., mist netting or acoustic surveys) and how the proposed survey level of effort (i.e., total # of net nights or detector nights) was calculated/determined;

33 Exact dates vary by location., with NLEBs typically being found earlier in spring at lower latitudes

2. A map depicting the proposed number of survey sites (mist netting or acoustic) and their tentative distribution throughout the project area; NOTE: If a site has never been visited or confirmed to have suitable mist netting habitat, it is the surveyor’s responsibility to contact the USFWS FO(s), and come up with an alternative plan, such as conducting an acoustic survey. The USFWS FO may reject mist net surveys that lead to false negative results.

3. A tentative list of surveyor names and copies of relevant federal permits (if applicable);

4. A tentative survey schedule (e.g., start date, duration, end date);

5. For mist netting surveys with planned Phase 4 radio-tracking: the approximate number and distribution of transmitters (e.g., prioritization of sex/age, maximum number per site) and a request that bats targeted for tracking may be held for up to 30 minutes34 to allow for application of transmitters; and

6. For acoustic surveys: information on which specific program(s) will be used and what level of acoustic analyses will be conducted.

If potential hibernacula are identified, then Phase 5 Study Plans should contain the following:

1. A completed USFWS Project Proposal Form (see Appendix H);

2. A map depicting all potential hibernacula identified and their tentative distribution throughout the project area;

3. A written justification if an entrance(s) survey is proposed instead of an internal survey;

4. A written justification if mist-nets are proposed instead of harp traps; and

5. For surveys of entrances that are inter-connected and unfeasible to survey on the same night, a proposed modified method to complete the survey (see Phase 2, #5 in Appendix H).

34 Current standard federal Section 10 bat permit conditions require prior written approval from the Field Supervisor in the USFWS FO(s) if capture times may exceed 30 minutes.

APPENDIX B: PHASE 2 OR 3 MIST-NETTING