Climbing Advisories in Effect at Pinnacles National Park; Annual measures to protect nesting raptors began on January 18

PAICINES CA – Annual measures to protect nesting raptors of Pinnacles National Park were reinstated as of January 18, 2022, according to Park Superintendent Blanca Alvarez Stransky. Last year 12 pairs of Prairie and Peregrine Falcons produced a total of 40 fledglings. Additionally, the park had successful nesting by birds of prey including American Kestrels, Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, Long-eared Owls, Barn Owls, and Great Horned Owls. 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, the Piedras Bonitas/Gargoyle area, Resurrection Wall, Little Pinnacles/Yaks Wall, and the Egg Rock/Teapot Dome areas,” said Stransky. “Without your cooperation in avoiding the advisory areas, this program could not be the success that it is,” Stransky 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 park’s raptor monitoring program, please call the office of Research and Resource Management at 831-389-4486 extension 4279.