WestLand was retained to conduct raptor studies within the proposed Near West Tailings alternative area to provide baseline biological information to support planning and permitting activities. Raptor surveys were timed to coincide with the breeding, nesting and post-fledgling periods for most raptors in the area. Eleven raptor species were recorded in the Analysis Area in 2013. None of the species observed are listed by USFWS as threatened or endangered under ESA, or by the USFS as sensitive or Management Indicator Species.