Open Space and Mountain Parks lifts seasonal raptor closures

The City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) Department has lifted the seasonal closures in the following areas:

·         Lefthand Canyon Palisades;

·         Third Flatiron, including the East and West Ironing Boards, Queen Anne’s Head and Jaws, and WC Pinnacle and all descent routes;

·         Bear Creek Spire;

·         Fern Canyon, including the Goose, the Goose Eggs, the East Ridge and Nebel Horn;

·         Shadow Canyon and the Matron;

·         The entire Mickey Mouse wall;

·         The north side of Flagstaff Summit.

These areas are nesting and roosting spots for golden eagles, peregrine falcons and prairie falcons. They were closed Feb. 1 to protect the nesting and roosting raptors this season.

The City of Boulder has been monitoring raptor nesting and roosting areas since 1984 – and the technique has become an important part of protecting the species in the area.  OSMP relies heavily on the public to respect the closures, and the cooperation of visitors to these areas is greatly appreciated.

“We would like to thank our visitors and volunteers for supporting the closures and the Cliff Nesting Raptor Program,” said OSMP Ranger Jerry Katopodes. “Public support of this program greatly increases the survival rate for birds of prey.”

In 2010, volunteer raptor monitors and OSMP staff reported two successful nesting attempts by peregrine falcons producing five fledglings; three successful nesting attempts by prairie falcons producing twelve fledglings; two successful nesting attempts by golden eagles producing three fledglings; three successful nesting attempts by osprey producing six fledglings; and one successful nesting attempt by bald eagles producing two fledglings.  Fledged raptors may still be in some of these areas. Please report any aggressive raptor behavior to OSMP at 303-441-3440.

For information on OSMP, please visit www.osmp.org or call 303-441-3440.

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