[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 12, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 1368-1375]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-00157]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[4500030115]


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 90-Day Findings on 
17 Petitions

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Petition findings and initiation of status reviews.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce 90-
day findings on various petitions to list, reclassify, or delist fish, 
wildlife, or plants under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as 
amended (Act). Based on our review, we find that six petitions do not 
present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating 
that the petitioned actions may be warranted, and we are not initiating 
status reviews in response to these petitions. We refer to these as 
``not-substantial'' petition findings. We also find that 11 petitions 
present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating 
that the petitioned actions may be warranted. Therefore, with the 
publication of this document, we announce that we plan to initiate a 
review of the status of these species to determine if the petitioned 
actions are warranted. To ensure that these status reviews are 
comprehensive, we are requesting scientific and commercial data and 
other information regarding these species. Based on the status reviews, 
we will issue 12-month findings on the petitions, which will address 
whether the petitioned action is warranted, as provided in section 
4(b)(3)(B) of the Act.

DATES: When we conduct status reviews, we will consider all information 
that we have received. To ensure that we will have adequate time to 
consider submitted information during the status reviews, we request 
that we receive information no later than March 14, 2016. Information 
submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see 
ADDRESSES) should be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the closing 
date.

ADDRESSES: Not-substantial petition findings: The not-substantial 
petition findings announced in this document are available on http://www.regulations.gov under the appropriate docket number (see Table 2 in 
this section), or on the Service's Web site at ecos.fws.gov. Supporting 
information in preparing these findings is available for public 
inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours by contacting 
the appropriate person, as specified under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 
CONTACT.
    Status reviews: You may submit information on species for which a 
status review is being initiated by one of the following methods:
    (1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter the appropriate docket 
number (see Table 1, below). You may submit information by clicking on 
``Comment Now!'' If your information will fit in the provided comment 
box, please use this feature of http://www.regulations.gov, as it is 
most compatible with our information review procedures. If you attach 
your information as a separate document, our preferred file format is

[[Page 1369]]

Microsoft Word. If you attach multiple comments (such as form letters), 
our preferred format is a spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel.
    (2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail or hand-delivery to: Public 
Comments Processing, Attn: [Insert appropriate docket number; see Table 
1, below]; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: BPHC, 5275 Leesburg 
Pike; Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.
    We request that you send information only by the methods described 
above. We will post all information received on http://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we will post any 
personal information you provide us (see Request for Information for 
Status Reviews in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for more details).

                                   Table 1--List of Substantial Findings for Which a Status Review Is Being Initiated
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Common name                         Docket No.                                            URL to docket in regs.gov
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Culebra skink................  FWS-R4-ES-2015-0085..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0085.
Great Basin silverspot         FWS-R6-ES-2015-0089..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0089.
 butterfly.
Greater Saint Croix skink....  FWS-R4-ES-2015-0090..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0090.
Greater Virgin Islands skink.  FWS-R4-ES-2015-0091..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0091.
Lesser Saint Croix skink.....  FWS-R4-ES-2015-0096..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0096.
Mona skink...................  FWS-R4-ES-2015-0100..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0100.
Narrow-foot diving beetle....  FWS-R6-ES-2015-0102..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0102.
Northern Rockies population    FWS-R6-ES-2015-0104..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0104.
 of fisher.
Puerto Rican skink...........  FWS-R4-ES-2015-0107..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0107.
Scott riffle beetle..........  FWS-R6-ES-2015-0114..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0114.
Virgin Islands bronze skink..  FWS-R4-ES-2015-0120..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0120.
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                                                        Table 2--List of Not-Substantial Findings
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          Common name                         Docket No.                                           URL to docket in regs.gov
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Colorado desert fringe-toed     FWS-R8-ES-2015-0082..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0082.
 lizard.
Grizzly bear (Cabinet-Yaak      FWS-R6-ES-2015-0173..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0173.
 population)--Uplist.
Grizzly bear (Cabinet-Yaak      FWS-R6-ES-2015-0174..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0174.
 population)--Delist.
Kings River slender salamander  FWS-R8-ES-2015-0094..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0094.
Sandstone night lizard........  FWS-R8-ES-2015-0113..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0113.
Yellowstone bison.............  FWS-R6-ES-2015-0123..................  http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0123.
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 

------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Common name                         Contact person
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colorado desert fringe-toed lizard.....  Mendel Stewart, 760-431-9440;
                                          [email protected].
Culebra skink..........................  Andreas Moshogianis, 404-679-
                                          7119;
                                          [email protected].
Great Basin silverspot butterfly.......  Ann Timberman, 970-628-7181;
                                          [email protected].
Greater Saint Croix skink..............  Andreas Moshogianis, 404-679-
                                          7119;
                                          [email protected].
Greater Virgin Islands skink...........  Andreas Moshogianis, 404-679-
                                          7119;
                                          [email protected].
Grizzly bear (Cabinet-Yaak population).  Chris Servheen, 406-243-4903;
                                          [email protected].
Kings River slender salamander.........  Jennifer Norris, 916-414-6600;
                                          [email protected].
Lesser Saint Croix skink...............  Andreas Moshogianis, 404-679-
                                          7119;
                                          [email protected].
Mona skink.............................  Andreas Moshogianis, 404-679-
                                          7119;
                                          [email protected].
Narrow-foot diving beetle..............  Mark Sattelberg, 307-772-2374;
                                          [email protected].
Northern Rockies population of fisher..  Jodi Bush, 406-449-5225 x105;
                                          [email protected].
Puerto Rican skink.....................  Andreas Moshogianis, 404-679-
                                          7119;
                                          [email protected].
Sandstone Night lizard.................  Mendel Stewart, 760-431-9440;
                                          [email protected].
Scott riffle beetle....................  Jason Luginbill, 785-539-3474
                                          x105; [email protected].
Virgin Islands bronze skink............  Andreas Moshogianis, 404-679-
                                          7119;
                                          [email protected].
Yellowstone bison......................  Mark Sattelberg, 307-772-2374;
                                          [email protected].
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), please 
call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Request for Information for Status Reviews

    When we make a finding that a petition presents substantial 
information indicating that listing, reclassification, or delisting a 
species may be warranted, we are required to review the status of the 
species (status review). For the status review to be complete and based 
on the best available scientific and commercial information, we request 
information on these species from governmental agencies, Native 
American Tribes, the scientific community, industry, and any

[[Page 1370]]

other interested parties. We seek information on:
    (1) The species' biology, range, and population trends, including:
    (a) Habitat requirements;
    (b) Genetics and taxonomy;
    (c) Historical and current range, including distribution patterns;
    (d) Historical and current population levels, and current and 
projected trends; and
    (e) Past and ongoing conservation measures for the species, its 
habitat, or both.
    (2) The factors that are the basis for making a listing, 
reclassification, or delisting determination for a species under 
section 4(a) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), which are:
    (a) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or 
curtailment of its habitat or range (Factor A);
    (b) Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or 
educational purposes (Factor B);
    (c) Disease or predation (Factor C);
    (d) The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms (Factor D); or
    (e) Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued 
existence (Factor E).
    (3) The potential effects of climate change on the species and its 
habitat, and the extent to which it affects the habitat or range of the 
species.
    If, after the status review, we determine that listing is 
warranted, we will propose critical habitat (see definition in section 
3(5)(A) of the Act) for domestic (U.S.) species under section 4 of the 
Act, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable at the time we 
propose to list the species. Therefore, we also request data and 
information for the species listed above in Table 1 (to be submitted as 
provided for in the ADDRESSES section) on:
    (1) What may constitute ``physical or biological features essential 
to the conservation of the species,'' within the geographical range 
occupied by the species;
    (2) Where these features are currently found;
    (3) Whether any of these features may require special management 
considerations or protection;
    (4) Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the 
species that are ``essential for the conservation of the species''; and
    (5) What, if any, critical habitat you think we should propose for 
designation if the species is proposed for listing, and why such 
habitat meets the requirements of section 4 of the Act.
    Please include sufficient information with your submission (such as 
scientific journal articles or other publications) to allow us to 
verify any scientific or commercial information you include.
    Submissions merely stating support for or opposition to the actions 
under consideration without providing supporting information, although 
noted, will not be considered in making a determination. Section 
4(b)(1)(A) of the Act directs that determinations as to whether any 
species is an endangered or threatened species must be made ``solely on 
the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available.''
    You may submit your information concerning these status reviews by 
one of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES section. If you submit 
information via http://www.regulations.gov, your entire submission--
including any personal identifying information--will be posted on the 
Web site. If you submit a hardcopy that includes personal identifying 
information, you may request at the top of your document that we 
withhold this personal identifying information from public review. 
However, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. We will 
post all hardcopy submissions on http://www.regulations.gov.
    Information and supporting documentation that we received and used 
in preparing these 90-day findings is available for you to review at 
http://www.regulations.gov, or you may make an appointment during 
normal business hours at the appropriate lead U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service Field Office (contact the person listed under FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT).

Background

    Section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act requires that we make a finding on 
whether a petition to list, delist, or reclassify a species presents 
substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the 
petitioned action may be warranted. To the maximum extent practicable, 
we are to make this finding within 90 days of our receipt of the 
petition and publish our notice of the finding promptly in the Federal 
Register.
    Our standard for substantial scientific or commercial information 
within the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) with regard to a 90-day 
petition finding is ``that amount of information that would lead a 
reasonable person to believe that the measure proposed in the petition 
may be warranted'' (50 CFR 424.14(b)). If we find that substantial 
scientific or commercial information was presented, we are required to 
promptly commence a review of the status of the species, which will be 
subsequently summarized in our 12-month finding.
    Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533) and its implementing 
regulations at 50 CFR 424 set forth the procedures for adding a species 
to, or removing a species from, the Federal Lists of Endangered and 
Threatened Wildlife and Plants. A species may be determined to be an 
endangered or threatened species because of one or more of the five 
factors described in section 4(a)(1) of the Act (see Request for 
Information for Status Reviews, above).
    In considering whether conditions described within one or more of 
the factors might constitute threats, we must look beyond the exposure 
of the species to those conditions to evaluate whether the species may 
respond to the conditions in a way that causes actual impacts to the 
species. If there is exposure to a condition and the species responds 
negatively, the condition qualify as a stressors and, during the 
subsequent status review, we attempt to determine how significant the 
stressor is. If the stressor is sufficiently significant that it 
drives, or contributes to, the risk of extinction of the species such 
that the species may warrant listing as endangered or threatened as 
those terms are defined in the Act, the stressor constitutes a threat 
to the species. Thus, the identification of conditions that could 
affect a species negatively may not be sufficient to compel a finding 
that the information in the petition and our files is substantial. The 
information must include evidence sufficient to suggest that these 
conditions may be operative threats that act on the species to a 
sufficient degree that the species may meet the definition of an 
endangered or threatened species under the Act.

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Colorado Desert Fringe-Toed Lizard 
as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R8-ES-2015-0082 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Colorado desert fringe-toed lizard (Uma notata); California, Baja 
California, Mexico

Petition History

    On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from 
the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of 
reptiles and amphibians, including the Colorado desert fringe-toed 
lizard, be listed under

[[Page 1371]]

the Act as endangered or threatened species and that critical habitat 
be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as 
such and included the requisite identification information for the 
petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the 
Colorado desert fringe-toed lizard.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned 
action may be warranted for Colorado desert fringe-toed lizard (Uma 
notata). Because the petition does not present substantial information 
indicating that listing the Colorado desert fringe-toed lizard may be 
warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in 
response to this petition. Our justification for this finding can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R8-ES-2015-0082 under the Supporting Documents section. However, we 
ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes 
available concerning the status of, or threats to, this species or its 
habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Culebra Skink as an Endangered or 
Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R4-ES-2015-0085 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Culebra skink (Spondylurus culebrae); Caribbean

Petition History

    On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 
2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the 
Culebra skink, greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican 
skink, Virgin Islands bronze skink, Greater Virgin Islands skink, 
lesser Saint Croix skink, Monito skink, and lesser Virgin Islands skink 
be listed as endangered or threatened and that critical habitat be 
designated for these species under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). We 
acknowledged receipt of this petition via email on February 12, 2014. 
This finding addresses the Culebra skink (Spondylurus culebrae).

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the Culebra skink 
(Spondylurus culebrae) may be warranted based on Factors C and D. 
However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all 
potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the Service 
requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) 
of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see 
Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Great Basin Silverspot as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0089 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Great Basin silverspot (Speyeria nokomis nokomis); Arizona, Colorado, 
New Mexico, Utah

Petition History

    On April 24, 2013, we received a petition dated April 13, 2013, 
from WildEarth Guardians, requesting that the Great Basin silverspot be 
listed as endangered or threatened under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This 
finding addresses the petition.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the Great Basin 
silverspot (Speyeria nokomis nokomis) may be warranted based on Factors 
A and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate 
all potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the 
Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 
4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding 
(see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Greater Saint Croix Skink as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R4-ES-2015-0090 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Greater Saint Croix skink (Spondylurus magnacruzae); Caribbean

Petition History

    On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 
2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the 
Culebra skink, greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican 
skink, Virgin Islands bronze skink, greater Virgin Islands skink, 
lesser Saint Croix skink, Monito skink, and lesser Virgin Islands skink 
be listed as endangered or threatened and that critical habitat be 
designated for these species under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). We 
acknowledged receipt of this petition via email on February 12, 2014. 
This finding addresses the greater Saint Croix skink.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the greater Saint Croix 
skink (Spondylurus magnacruzae) may be warranted based on Factors C and 
D. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all 
potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the Service 
requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) 
of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see 
Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Greater Virgin Islands Skink as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R4-ES-2015-0091 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Greater Virgin Islands skink (Spondylurus spilonotus); Caribbean

[[Page 1372]]

Petition History

    On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 
2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the 
Culebra skink, greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican 
skink, Virgin Islands bronze skink, greater Virgin Islands skink, 
lesser Saint Croix skink, Monito skink, and lesser Virgin Islands skink 
be listed as endangered or threatened and that critical habitat be 
designated for these species under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). We 
acknowledged receipt of this petition via email on February 12, 2014. 
This finding addresses the greater Virgin Islands skink.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the greater Virgin 
Islands skink (Spondylurus spilonotus) may be warranted based on 
Factors C and D. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly 
evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, 
the Service requests information on the five listing factors under 
section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this 
finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To Reclassify the Grizzly Bear (Cabinet-Yaak 
Population) From a Threatened Species to an Endangered Species Under 
the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0173 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Grizzly bear (Cabinet-Yaak population) (Ursus arctos horribilis); 
Montana, Idaho

Petition History

    On December 17, 2014, we received a petition dated December 11, 
2014, from the Alliance for the Wild Rockies, requesting that the 
Cabinet-Yaak grizzly bear be reclassified as endangered and that 
critical habitat be designated for this population under the Act. The 
petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite 
identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 
424.14(a). In a February 2, 2015, letter to the petitioner 
acknowledging receipt of the petition, we responded that we reviewed 
the information presented in the petition and did not find that the 
petition warranted an emergency listing. This finding addresses the 
petition.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned 
action (reclassifying from threatened status to endangered status) may 
be warranted for the Cabinet-Yaak grizzly bear (Ursus arctos 
horribilis). Because the petition does not present substantial 
information indicating that reclassifying the Cabinet-Yaak grizzly bear 
may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species 
in response to this petition. Our justification for this finding can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0173 under the Supporting Documents section. However, we 
ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes 
available concerning the status of, or threats to, this population or 
its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

Evaluation of a Petition To Remove the Grizzly Bear (Cabinet-Yaak 
Population) From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0174 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Grizzly bear (Cabinet-Yaak population) (Ursus arctos horribilis); 
Montana, Idaho

Petition History

    On July 27, 2015, we received a petition dated July 24, 2015, from 
Lincoln County, Montana, requesting that we remove Cabinet-Yaak grizzly 
bears from the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (i.e., 
``delist'' Cabinet-Yaak grizzly bears) due to recovery under the Act. 
Grizzly bears, including the Cabinet-Yaak population, are currently 
listed as threatened under the Act. The petition clearly identified 
itself as such and included the requisite identification information 
for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 21, 
2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we received the 
petition. This finding addresses this portion of the petition.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned 
action (delisting) may be warranted for the Cabinet-Yaak population of 
grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis). Because the petition does not 
present substantial information indicating that delisting the Cabinet-
Yaak population of grizzly bear may be warranted, we are not initiating 
a status review of this species in response to this petition. Our 
justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2015-0174 under the 
Supporting Documents section. However, we ask that the public submit to 
us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, 
or threats to, this population or its habitat at any time (see FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Kings River Slender Salamander as 
an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R8-ES-2015-0094 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Kings River slender salamander (Batrachoseps regius); California

Petition History

    On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from 
the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of 
reptiles and amphibians, including the Kings River slender salamander, 
be listed under the Act as endangered or threatened and that critical 
habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified 
itself as such and included the requisite identification information 
for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding 
addresses the Kings River slender salamander.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that the

[[Page 1373]]

petitioned action may be warranted for the Kings River slender 
salamander (Batrachoseps regius). Because the petition does not present 
substantial information indicating that listing the Kings River slender 
salamander may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of 
this species in response to this petition. Our justification for this 
finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0094 under the Supporting Documents section. 
However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that 
becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, this species 
or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Lesser Saint Croix Skink as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R4-ES-2015-0096 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Lesser Saint Croix skink (Capitellum parvicruzae); Caribbean

Petition History

    On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 
2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the 
Culebra skink, greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican 
skink, Virgin Islands bronze skink, greater Virgin Islands skink, 
lesser Saint Croix skink, Monito skink, and lesser Virgin Islands skink 
be listed as endangered or threatened and that critical habitat be 
designated for these species under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). We 
acknowledged receipt of this petition via email on February 12, 2014. 
This finding addresses the lesser Saint Croix skink.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the lesser Saint Croix 
skink (Capitellum parvicruzae) may be warranted based on Factors C and 
D. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all 
potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the Service 
requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) 
of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see 
Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Mona Skink as an Endangered or 
Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R4-ES-2015-0100 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Mona skink (Spondylurus monae); Caribbean

Petition History

    On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 
2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the 
Culebra skink, greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican 
skink, Virgin Islands bronze skink, greater Virgin Islands skink, 
lesser Saint Croix skink, Monito skink, and lesser Virgin Islands skink 
be listed as endangered or threatened and that critical habitat be 
designated for these species under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). We 
acknowledged receipt of this petition via email on February 12, 2014. 
This finding addresses the Mona skink.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the Mona skink 
(Spondylurus monae) may be warranted based on Factors A, C, and D. 
However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all 
potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the Service 
requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) 
of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see 
Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Narrow-Foot Diving Beetle as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0102 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Narrow-foot diving beetle (Hygrotus diversipes); Wyoming

Petition History

    On July 17, 2013, we received a petition dated July 9, 2013, from 
WildEarth Guardians, requesting that the narrow-foot diving beetle be 
listed as endangered or threatened under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This 
finding addresses the narrow-foot diving beetle.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the narrow-foot diving 
beetle (Hygrotus diversipes) may be warranted based on Factors A and E. 
However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all 
potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the Service 
requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) 
of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see 
Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Fisher (Northern Rockies 
Population) as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0104 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Fisher (Northern Rockies population) (Martes pennanti); Idaho, Montana

Petition History

    On September 23, 2013, we received a petition dated September 23, 
2013, from the Center for Biological Diversity, Defenders of Wildlife, 
Friends of the Bitterroot, Friends of the Clearwater, Western 
Watersheds Project, and Friends of the Wild Swan, requesting that the 
fisher in its U.S. Northern Rocky Mountains (USNRMs) range be listed as 
endangered or threatened under the Act. The petition clearly identified 
itself as such and included the requisite identification information 
for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an October 31, 
2013, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we reviewed the 
information presented in the petition and did not find that the

[[Page 1374]]

petition warranted an emergency listing. This finding addresses the 
petition.
    On June 30, 2011, we published a 12-month finding (76 FR 38504) 
following a full status review of fishers in the USNRMs that concluded 
listing the entity as endangered or threatened under the Act was not 
warranted.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, including new information that petitioners submitted after 
the 2011 finding, we find that the petition presents substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that listing the fisher 
(Northern Rockies population) (Martes pennanti) may be warranted based 
on Factors B and E. However, during our status review, we will 
thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. In the course 
of reviewing the status of the species, we will consider any 
information that has become available since the 2011 finding, including 
the new information provided by the petitioners. Thus, for this 
species, the Service requests information on the five listing factors 
under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in 
this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Puerto Rico Skink as an Endangered 
or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R4-ES-2015-0107 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Puerto Rico skink (Spondylurus nitidus); Caribbean

Petition History

    On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 
2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the 
Culebra skink, greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican 
skink, Virgin Islands bronze skink, greater Virgin Islands skink, 
lesser Saint Croix skink, Monito skink, and lesser Virgin Islands skink 
be listed as endangered or threatened and that critical habitat be 
designated for these species under the Act. The petition clearly 
identified itself as such and included the requisite identification 
information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). We 
acknowledged receipt of this petition via email on February 12, 2014. 
This finding addresses the Puerto Rican skink.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the Puerto Rico skink 
(Spondylurus nitidus) may be warranted based on Factors A, C, and D. 
However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all 
potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the Service 
requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) 
of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see 
Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Sandstone Night Lizard as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R8-ES-2015-0113 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Sandstone night lizard (Xantusia gracilis); California

Petition History

    On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from 
the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of 
reptiles and amphibians, including the sandstone night lizard, be 
listed under the Act as endangered or threatened and that critical 
habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified 
itself as such and included the requisite identification information 
for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding 
addresses the petition.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned 
action may be warranted for the sandstone night lizard (Xantusia 
gracilis). Because the petition does not present substantial 
information indicating that listing the sandstone night lizard may be 
warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in 
response to this petition. Our justification for this finding can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R8-ES-2015-0113 under the Supporting Documents section. However, we 
ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes 
available concerning the status of, or threats to, this species or its 
habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Scott Riffle Beetle as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0114 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Scott riffle beetle (Optioservus phaeus gilbert); Kansas

Petition History

    On September 20, 2013, we received a petition dated September 18, 
2013, from WildEarth Guardians, requesting that the Scott riffle beetle 
be listed as endangered or threatened under the Act. The petition 
clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite 
identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 
424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the Scott riffle beetle 
(Optioservus phaeus gilbert) may be warranted based on Factors A, C, D, 
and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate 
all potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the 
Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 
4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding 
(see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Virgin Islands Bronze Skink as an 
Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R4-ES-2015-0120 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Virgin Islands bronze skink (Spondylurus sloanii); Caribbean

Petition History

    On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 
2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the 
Culebra skink,

[[Page 1375]]

greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican skink, Virgin 
Islands bronze skink, greater Virgin Islands skink, lesser Saint Croix 
skink, Monito skink, and lesser Virgin Islands skink be listed as 
endangered or threatened and that critical habitat be designated for 
these species under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as 
such and included the requisite identification information for the 
petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). We acknowledged receipt of 
this petition via email on February 12, 2014. This finding addresses 
the Virgin Islands bronze skink.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the 
petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or 
commercial information indicating that listing the Virgin Islands 
bronze skink (Spondylurus sloanii) may be warranted based on Factors C 
and D. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate 
all potential threats to the species. Thus, for this species, the 
Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 
4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding 
(see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above).

Evaluation of a Petition To List the Yellowstone Bison as an Endangered 
or Threatened Species Under the Act

    Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be 
found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FWS-R6-ES-2015-0123 under the Supporting Documents section.

Species and Range

Yellowstone bison (Bison bison bison); Wyoming

Petition History

    On November 14, 2014, we received a petition dated November 13, 
2014, from the Western Watersheds Project and Buffalo Field Campaign, 
requesting that Yellowstone National Park bison be listed as endangered 
or threatened under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as 
such and included the requisite identification information for the 
petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a).
    On March 2, 2015, we received a second petition dated March 2, 
2015, from Mr. James A. Horsley, requesting that Yellowstone National 
Park bison be listed as endangered or threatened under the Act. The 
petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite 
identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 
424.14(a). In a March 24, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded 
that we reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not 
find that the petition warranted an emergency listing.
    This finding addresses both petitions, as they request the same 
action for the same entity.

Finding

    Based on our review of the petitions and sources cited in the 
petitions, we find that the petitions do not present substantial 
scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned 
action may be warranted for the Yellowstone bison (Bison bison bison). 
Because the petitions do not present substantial information indicating 
that listing the Yellowstone bison may be warranted, we are not 
initiating a status review of this subspecies in response to these 
petitions. Our justification for this finding can be found as an 
appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2015-
0123 under the Supporting Documents section. However, we ask that the 
public submit to us any new information that becomes available 
concerning the status of, or threats to, this subspecies or its habitat 
at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

Conclusion

    On the basis of our evaluation of the information presented under 
section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act, we have determined that the petitions 
summarized above for the Cabinet-Yaak population of grizzly bear (two 
petitions), Colorado desert fringe-toed lizard, Kings River slender 
salamander, sandstone night lizard, and the Yellowstone bison do not 
present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating 
that the requested actions may be warranted. Therefore, we are not 
initiating status reviews for these species.
    The petitions summarized above for the Culebra skink, Great Basin 
silverspot butterfly, greater Saint Croix skink, greater Virgin Islands 
skink, lesser Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, narrow-foot diving beetle, 
Northern Rockies population of fisher, Puerto Rico skink, Scott riffle 
beetle, and Virgin Islands bronze skink present substantial scientific 
or commercial information indicating that the requested actions may be 
warranted.
    Because we have found that these petitions present substantial 
information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted, we 
are initiating status reviews to determine whether these actions under 
the Act are warranted. At the conclusion of the status reviews, we will 
issue a finding, in accordance with section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act, as 
to whether or not the Service believes listing is warranted.
    It is important to note that the standard for a 90-day finding 
differs from the Act's standard that applies to a status review to 
determine whether a petitioned action is warranted. In making a 90-day 
finding, we consider only the information in the petition and in our 
files, and we evaluate merely whether that constitutes ``substantial 
information'' indicating that the petitioned action ``may be 
warranted.'' In a 12-month finding, we must complete a thorough status 
review of the species and evaluate the ``best scientific and commercial 
data available'' to determine whether a petitioned action ``is 
warranted.'' Because the Act's standards for 90-day and 12-month 
findings are different, a substantial 90-day finding does not mean that 
the 12-month finding will result in a ``warranted'' finding.

References Cited

    A complete list of references cited is available on the Internet at 
http://www.regulations.gov and upon request from the appropriate lead 
field offices (contact the person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 
CONTACT).

Authors

    The primary authors of this notice are staff members of the 
Ecological Services Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Authority

    The authority for these actions is the Endangered Species Act of 
1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

    Dated: December 31, 2015.
Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-00157 Filed 1-11-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P