Photo by Raptor Monitor Gavin Emmons

Red tailed hawk chicks, 28 days after their hatch date.

Raptor Advisories have been lifted for the 2008 Breeding Season

Migratory raptors have finished their breeding season and advisories are lifted until January 2009. We thank climbers and off-trail hikers for their cooperation in staying away from breeding areas. Thanks to you, it was another successful breeding year!

When raptor advisory season begins again in January 2009, please look at our list of sensitive areas before you plan your trip. Friends of Pinnacles also maintains a current listing of closed areas. 

Details about the 2008 breeding season will be posted soon. For details about the 2007 breeding season and the raptor monitoring program at Pinnacles, read our 2007 Breeding Season Report.

Photo by Raptor Monitor Gavin Emmons

A turkey vulture chick at 6 weeks old

Raptor Advisory Information
To maximize the potential of successful nest establishment, Pinnacles National Monument requests that all visitors refrain from rock climbing and off-trail hiking in sensitive areas during the advisory periods.

These protective measures usually remain in effect until June or July. However, as nesting activity is monitored by Monument staff, additional sensitive areas may be identified and listed. Some areas may also be opened. Please check with a ranger or carefully examine the Climbing Information Bulletin Board as you plan you climbing and hiking trips.

This advisory does not affect hiking along the Monument's primary trail system. All designated trails will remain fully accessible by park visitors. Climbers should continue to use designated "Climber Access Routes" in all areas of the Monument. Special care is requested for those areas most heavily impacted by climbing: Discovery Wall, Elephant Rock, Machete, Upper Crust, the Camel, and the Sisters.

Please remember that intentionally disturbing wildlife nesting, breeding, and other activities is a violation of Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Section 2.2 (a) (2)). The Raptor Advisory System has been in effect since 1988. We would like to thank you for your assistance in protecting these magnificent birds. By coming to Pinnacles and following these recommendations, you become a partner in managing the Monument's resources. You are a vital component to the success of maintaining raptors. Without your cooperation, park staff could not protect the natural resources. You help make Pinnacles a special place.