An updated climbing closure is in effect after Peregrine Falcons were observed in nesting behavior on the Southeast face of the Tower.
Recent aggressive Falcon activity, such as dive-bombing climbers on Meadows-to-Summit, the route most climbers take to reach the summit, has been reported. For the safety of climbers and to protect the nesting Falcons, a modified temporary closure is in effect. Routes on the Southeast face and the Southeast edges of the Tower’s Summit, including the East side of the Meadows and the Standard Meadows Finish are closed. The closure also involves 31 routes between, “Hollywood and Vine" and “Belle Fourche Buttress" inclusive. A complete list of all routes in the closed area is available at the climbing office.
“The annual closure for nesting falcons was established under the Monument's 1995 Climbing Management Plan with authority from the Migratory Bird Treaty Act." said Superintendent Tim Reid.
Temporary closures are necessary when Peregrine Falcons are nesting. The presence of climbers on the Tower near falcon nests is distressing to the parent birds. The birds become extremely defensive by diving at climbers. Disturbance from climbing activities may force falcons to abandon eggs or chicks. Climbers are asked to report Falcon activity to a park ranger.
“Failure to comply with the temporary climbing closure could result in a fine and or time in jail. All climbers must register at the climbing office or kiosk before they begin their ascent," said Drew Gilmour, Chief of Law Enforcement.
To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument, contact 307-467-5283, visit us online at www.nps.gov/deto, www.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site or twitter.com @DevilsTowerNM.
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Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
