Feds seek comments on flycatcher habitat proposal

The public has two months to weigh in on a proposal to revise critical habitat for the endangered Southwestern willow flycatcher in six states.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has identified more than 2,100 stream miles in California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico as part of the habitat proposal.

The agency says about 900 miles are currently being considered for exclusion from the final designation, while two more locations in Arizona could be added.

As part of the proposal, the agency has prepared a draft economic analysis and environmental assessment.

The public can comment through Sept. 10.

The revised habitat proposal for the migratory bird is the result of legal challenges.

The flycatcher breeds and rears its nestlings in late spring and summer along streams, rivers, wetlands and reservoirs in the arid Southwest.