APPENDICES - Laserfiche WebLink

until the young no longer depend on the nest and work can safely proceed. In some cases the Wildlife Biologist may be able to suggest alternative methods to use near the nest, which are discussed below. Considerations for Work Performed Near Active Bird Nests: Special guidelines for working near nests to avoid disturbing breeding wildlife include: ▪ The duration of the work to be completed ▪ The tools being used ▪ The species involved ▪ The distance of the work to the active nest ▪ The status of the nest (e.g. eggs present, parent incubating, young unable to fly, mature nestlings close to fledging), ▪ The location specifics (e.g. urban vs. rural) ▪ The environmental conditions (temperature and wind) Many nests require sufficient cover to provide protection from the elements and disguise from predators so vegetation removal should be minimized around nests. Additionally, a no-activity buffer, or an area in which no work should occur, should be established around the nest where possible. Emergencies: Wildlife emergencies during tree work involve situations where wildlife are injured, orphaned, or in danger, or where nests are abandoned or disturbed. The priority is to avoid these emergencies, but appropriate responses are crucial when they occur: • Contacting Wildlife Rehabilitators: If wildlife are injured or abandoned, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator. Provide detailed information about the situation and species involved. The rehabilitator will guide the next steps, which may include doing nothing to allow parents to return or safely transporting the wildlife. • Continuing Work: After a wildlife emergency, consult a Wildlife Biologist before resuming work. If no emergencies occur and no nesting wildlife are observed, continue working while remaining vigilant. Contact a Wildlife Trained Arborist or Wildlife Biologist if unsure how to proceed. • Human Health and Safety Emergencies: These involve immediate risks to human health or safety. A Wildlife Biologist can help coordinate permission to remove active nests with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies. In extreme situations, action may be taken before permission is received, but this should be a last resort. These guidelines help ensure that tree care activities are conducted responsibly, minimizing harm to wildlife while addressing emergencies effectively.