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bigwally
May 13, 2004, 8:46 PM
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Registered: Sep 2, 2002
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Devils Tower National Monument Climbing Routes Open Following Falcon Closure Effective immediately, all climbing routes temporarily closed to protect prairie falcons (Falco mexicanus) on Devils Tower are open. Surveys by park professionals have not recorded a nesting site for falcons on the Tower. The spring closure was implemented on March 15, 2004 to provide an undisturbed nesting opportunity. Previously, prairie falcons have successfully nested on the Tower during the years 1996, 1998 and 1999. The falcon closure is an annual event established under the national monument's Climbing Management Plan with authority from the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Areas on the west and northeast faces of the Tower were included in this spring’s closure. The park thanks climbers for honoring the closure and allowing the falcons an opportunity to nest. Beginning in March of each year, park professionals survey the Tower for prairie falcons. This year, falcons have been observed soaring and perching on the east face of the Tower and flying from the area toward the privately owned Missouri Buttes. A dramatic 1000 foot dive from the Tower top to the prairie dog town below was also recorded. Prairie falcons are extremely defensive of their nests and are easily driven from the area. The presence of climbers near or above falcon nests is distressing to parent birds. Too much disturbance from climbing activities may force falcons to abandon eggs or chicks. The closure was implemented not only for the protection of the species, but also for the protection of climbers, as falcons are known to defensively dive in order to protect their nests. For further information please contact Jim Cheatham, Chief of Resource Management, at (307) 467-5283 ext 12.
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climbs4fun
Moderator
May 13, 2004, 10:21 PM
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climbs4fun moved this thread from General to Access Issues & Closures.
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coclimber26
May 15, 2004, 3:06 PM
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That's good info...I didn't even know there were closures.
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tgreene
May 15, 2004, 3:14 PM
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Registered: Oct 22, 2003
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The month of June has a "voluntary" closure, in order to respect the Indians' religious ceremonies...
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