Pinnacles National Monument Climbing Areas Have Reopened

Pinnacles National Monument – Rock formations subject to advisory closures to rock climbing and off-trail hiking for protecting nesting falcons and eagles have reopened. According to Superintendent Eric Brunnemann, “All sensitive areas have been reopened and will remain so until next January when the raptors return and begin to select nest areas." A total of 7 prairie falcon nests successfully produced nestlings and fledged a total of 27 young, representing an average year for Pinnacles prairie falcon productivity. In addition to American Kestrels, Red-shouldered, Red-tailed, Sharp-shinned, and Cooper’s Hawks producing young this year, 1 Peregrine Falcon young fledged from a nest at Hawkins Peak.

2010 marks the 24th consecutive year of raptor monitoring at Pinnacles National Monument. “We thank the climbers and hikers for their patience and support of our efforts to protect these spectacular birds of prey at Pinnacles. Without your cooperation in avoiding the advisory areas, this program could not be the success that it is,” Brunnemann explained. Pinnacles' rock climbing advisories are lifted a few weeks after the nests have fledged. This allows the new fledglings some time to practice flying without being interrupted or disturbed by people.