BAXTER'S PINNACLE CLOSED FOR NESTING PEREGRINE FALCONS!
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Beginning Friday, May 2nd, an area including
Baxter’s Pinnacle and its southwest descent gully will be closed due to an
active peregrine falcon nest.
In 2011, a peregrine falcon pair
established a new nest near Baxter’s Pinnacle; this is the fourth year in a row
that a closure will be levied to protect both climbers and falcons. As the
peregrines reclaim this previous nest area, it is an especially critical time
for them; therefore, it is important that climbers comply with the posted public
closure.
Peregrines are territorial and aggressive birds especially while
nesting and incubating eggs; they become even more protective after their chicks
hatch.
This area is predicted to remain closed
until mid-August when the young birds have fledged or biologists
determine there is no longer a risk to either climbers or the falcons.
The peregrine falcon is among the world’s
fastest birds, flying at 40-55 mph and diving at more than 200 mph while
defending territory or striking prey. This poses a safety risk to climbers who
could be knocked off the route and injured.
Backcountry camping permits are required
year-round for all overnight trips into the backcountry of Grand Teton National
Park. Climbers
and hikers can obtain backcountry camping permits at the Craig Thomas
Discovery & Visitor Center. Detailed information can be found in the links
on the right.
