Some Temporary Raptor Closures in Rocky Mountain National Park Lifted, Others Extended

​Some Temporary Raptor Closures in Lumpy Ridge Lifted
in Rocky Mountain National Park; Closures Near Thunder Buttress, The Parish,
and Cathedral Wall Extended for the Protection of Nesting Raptors
​

    Each year to protect nesting raptors, Rocky Mountain National Park officials initiate temporary closures in areas of the park. To ensure that these birds of prey can nest undisturbed, specific areas within the park are closed temporarily to public use during nesting season and monitored by wildlife managers.  
 
    Based on raptor monitoring, the following closures have been lifted in the Lumpy Ridge area: Upper and Lower Twin Owls, Rock One, The Book and access trail, Bookmark, and Left Book. In 2024, raptors closures went into effect on February 15. These closures are actively monitored and may be extended longer or rescinded at an earlier date depending on nesting activity.
 
    Temporary closures have been extended in Lumpy Ridge for Thunder Buttress and access trail, The Parish, as well as Cathedral Wall in the Loch Vale area. Closures above the Loch Vale-Sky Pond Trail have also been extended.   
 
    Nesting birds of prey include Peregrine falcons, Golden eagles, and many species of hawks. Peregrine falcons can dive at speeds of over 200 mph and may cause bodily harm to humans when defending their territory. If disturbance pressure from climbers is sustained near a nesting area, falcons will abandon their nest causing chick mortality. These closures are in place for the safety of both visitors and wildlife.
 
    The National Park Service is committed to preserving birds of prey. If nest sites are located or territorial behaviors such as aggressive divebombing/vocalizing or birds fleeing nest sites due to human disturbance are observed, please report the location to ROMO_Information@nps.gov.
 
    The same cliffs that are critical for raptors also appeal to climbers. The cooperation of climbing organizations and individuals continues to be essential to the successful nesting of raptors in the park.
   
    For more information on Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/romo or call the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.