Matt Perkins
04-08-2005, 04:19 PM
Today, I received the following via E-Mail:
MIDNIGHT AND NOONTIME ROCKS AND VICINITY CLOSED TO ENTRY APRIL 1 TO JULY 31
To Protect Nesting Raptors.
By Order 36 CFR 261.53 (a). Violations are punishable by fine and
imprisonment.
Attention Climbers
Raptors have been observed on and between Midnight and Noontime Rocks. To
protect these birds during the nesting period these rocks and the area
immediately above and between them is closed to all entry. During the
nesting period, the site will be monitored and if conditions warrant, some
restrictions may be lifted.
Climbers are not the only creatures drawn to Leavenworth's rock faces. The
walls are also crucial breeding areas for birds of prey. They are
sensitive to human disturbance during their nesting and roosting cycle.
People who stray too close to a nest can scare off parent birds or elicit
an
attack. Even if the nest is not abandoned, disturbance can cause nest
failure. Eggs need to be constantly incubated so they do not become too
hot
or cold. Newly hatched raptors can not regulate their own body temperature
and frightened juvenile birds may attempt to fly before they are ready. It
is critical that everyone abides by posted seasonal closures in order to
protect the birds.
Thank you! Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests, Wenatchee River Ranger
District, Leavenworth Ranger Station (509)548-6977
Janet Millard, Wildlife Bio Tech
Wenatchee River RD
(formerly known as Lake Wenatchee & Leavenworth RD)
509-548-6977 ext 273
MIDNIGHT AND NOONTIME ROCKS AND VICINITY CLOSED TO ENTRY APRIL 1 TO JULY 31
To Protect Nesting Raptors.
By Order 36 CFR 261.53 (a). Violations are punishable by fine and
imprisonment.
Attention Climbers
Raptors have been observed on and between Midnight and Noontime Rocks. To
protect these birds during the nesting period these rocks and the area
immediately above and between them is closed to all entry. During the
nesting period, the site will be monitored and if conditions warrant, some
restrictions may be lifted.
Climbers are not the only creatures drawn to Leavenworth's rock faces. The
walls are also crucial breeding areas for birds of prey. They are
sensitive to human disturbance during their nesting and roosting cycle.
People who stray too close to a nest can scare off parent birds or elicit
an
attack. Even if the nest is not abandoned, disturbance can cause nest
failure. Eggs need to be constantly incubated so they do not become too
hot
or cold. Newly hatched raptors can not regulate their own body temperature
and frightened juvenile birds may attempt to fly before they are ready. It
is critical that everyone abides by posted seasonal closures in order to
protect the birds.
Thank you! Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests, Wenatchee River Ranger
District, Leavenworth Ranger Station (509)548-6977
Janet Millard, Wildlife Bio Tech
Wenatchee River RD
(formerly known as Lake Wenatchee & Leavenworth RD)
509-548-6977 ext 273