The National Park Service has announced a temporary closure of select areas in the Chisos Mountains to protect nesting Peregrine falcons. The closure will affect a portion of the East Rim Trail, from the southern junction of the Boot Canyon Trail to a point just north of East Rim Campsite E.R.-4, beginning February 1 and lasting through May 31.
Although the Peregrine falcon was removed from the federal endangered species list in August 1999, it remains classified as a threatened species in Texas. National Park Service policies mandate the protection of state-listed species and all species of concern, regardless of classification.
To fulfill this mandate and ensure the falcons have undisturbed nesting areas, the Park Service implements temporary closures or usage restrictions during nesting season. These measures are part of ongoing efforts to safeguard the falcons’ habitat and breeding success.
The Park Service notes that no other areas in the Chisos Mountains will be affected by the closure, though restrictions may be adjusted if falcon nesting behavior deviates from traditional patterns. Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly and respect the closures to support conservation efforts.
