You are here

Peregrine Falcon Nesting Prompts Trail Closures In Big Bend National Park

Share

By

Compiled from NPS Releases

Published Date

January 19, 2025
Peregrine falcon in flight facing the camera and clutching a small bird in its talons

Peregrine falcon adult in flight with bird prey clutched in its talons / NPS

From February 1 through May 31, the National Park Service will temporarily close certain areas in the Chisos Mountains at Big Bend National Park to protect nesting Peregrine falcons.

The Peregrine falcon, removed from the federal endangered species list in 1999 due to a remarkable recovery, is still classified as a threatened species in Texas. NPS policy requires the protection of all state-listed and species of concern, regardless of federal classification. To safeguard the falcons during nesting season and minimize human disturbance, specific areas in Big Bend National Park will be temporarily off-limits.

The following areas will be closed during this period:

  • A section of the East Rim Trail, from the southern junction of the Boot Canyon Trail to just north of Campsite ER-4.
  • East Rim Campsites: ER-4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.
  • Technical rock climbing within ¼ mile of known Peregrine nesting sites.

No additional closures are planned, but restrictions may change if falcon nesting behavior or site locations differ from past patterns. After the 2021 South Rim Fire burned 1,300 acres of woodland in the Chisos, including areas above historical nesting sites, a mating pair returned in 2022 and successfully fledged offspring. Last year, falcons were spotted in the area, though nesting was not confirmed.

These temporary closures ensure the continued protection of this threatened species while balancing public access to the park.

Related Stories:

Stories about:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Your urgent support helps the National Parks Traveler increase awareness of the wonders and issues confronting national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.