Annual measures to protect nesting raptors of Pinnacles National Monument have been reinstated as of Jan. 17, 2012, according to Park Superintendent Karen Beppler-Dorn. Last year 8 pairs of prairie falcons produced a total of 33 fledglings. Additionally, the monument had successful nesting by Peregrine Falcons, American Kestrels, Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper's Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and White-tailed Kites. Park researchers will continue to monitor raptors to better understand these interesting and beautiful birds. "We ask you to refrain from any off-trail hiking and climbing in sensitive areas which include the High Peaks, the Balconies Cliffs area, Machete Ridge, Citadel, Goat Rock, Resurrection Wall, Little Pinnacles, Pipsqueak Pinnacles, Egg Rock/Teapot Dome, and the Scout Peak area," said Beppler-Dorn. "Without your cooperation in avoiding the advisory areas, this program could not be the success that it is," Beppler-Dorn continued.
The specific locations of these sensitive areas are posted on information boards at trailheads, at the visitor centers, on the web at www.nps.gov/pinn or by calling (831)-389-4486.
For more information regarding the monument's raptor monitoring program, please refer to related web page links at www.nps.gov/pinn or call the office of Research and Resource Management at 831-389-4486 extension 270.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
