What we think a species’ habitat needs are versus what they will readily use, can often vary greatly, and in some cases be counter-intuitive to our perception. Gaining a more robust knowledge base regarding the variety of habitats a species may utilize is critical to conservation efforts seeking to successfully preserve/restore functional habitat for the benefit of the species. Westervelt Ecological Services (WES) was hired by the California High Speed High Speed Rail Authority to provide mitigation for impacts to Buena Vista Lake ornate shrew (Sorex ornatus relictus; BVLOS) habitat which resulted in the restoration and conservation of a duck club in western Kern County, referred to as the Lone Tree Mitigation Site. The Lone Tree Mitigation Site provides a case study exemplifying this knowledge dynamic by contrasting our perception of BVLOS habitat preferences with what the species will readily use and flourish in an arid landscape. This presentation highlights our understanding of general accepted BVLOS habitats preferences, what the species has demonstrated it will successfully use, and restoration outcomes garnered from the Lone Tree Mitigation Site experience.

Francesca Cannizzo has over 15 years of experience working in the environmental and conservation field. Her work experience includes identifying, establishing, restoring, and managing conservation lands for the benefit of threatened and endangered species. Francesca has worked on dozens of projects in arid landscapes, including the southern San Joaquin Valley and the Mojave Desert. For the last 10 years, she has specialized in environmental mitigation. While acting in her role as a Senior Ecologist for Westervelt Ecological Services, Francesca helps manage several conservation properties in the southern San Joaquin Valley.

Brian Cypher is a Research Ecologist with the CSU-Stanislaus Endangered Species Recovery Program.  He has been working intermittently on BVLS since 2010 including assisting WES with their BVLS surveys and conservation planning.