Temporary climbing restrictions that benefit NH state-listed threatened Peregrine Falcons are currently in effect and posted at the following New Hampshire cliffs:
- Eagle Cliff (south end) in Franconia, NH
- Holts Ledge (near ski area overlook) in Lyme, NH
- Owls Head (big wall on east half) in Benton, NH
- Rumney Rocks (Summit Cliff and adjacent) in Rumney, NH
- Russell Crag (Main Cliff) in Woodstock, NH
Peregrine Falcons are present and breeding at other NH cliffs where no closures have been posted because 1) nest locations are not yet pinpointed or 2) recreational use and risk of repeated disturbance is believed to be minimal. This includes at Band M Ledge, Cathedral Ledge, Painted Walls, and Woodchuck Ledge.
Climbers who encounter aggressive falcons during a climb at a NH cliff should assume they are breeding close by, and are advised to immediately alter their climbing plan, and to report such encounters to NH Audubon ( [email protected] ) or to NH Fish & Game ( [email protected] ).
All posted areas will be reopened no later than August 1, and possibly sooner if conditions warrant. Please share/distribute this list to your climbing colleagues and THANK YOU!