Midnight and Noontime rocks seasonal closure

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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

 

Raptor nesting behavior has been observed on both 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. Once

nesting is confirmed, restrictions will be lifted on the rock not being

used. If you know where the raptors are nesting, please contact the

Leavenworth FS office.

 

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.

Peole 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