Climbers welcomed back to Indian Creek in Bears Ears Nat’l Monument
Sep 11, 2024, 12:04 PM
A climber scales a crack in red rock. (Bureau of Land Management)
(Bureau of Land Management)
MONTICELLO, Utah — Now that birds of prey are done nesting for the year, the Bureau of Land Management said that Indian Creek is re-open to climbers.
Indian Creek is part of Bears Ears National Monument. Many of the climbing routes in the area have been referred to as “world-class.”
Previously, the BLM asked climbers to avoid the area for the spring and summer, referring to the request as a voluntary climbing closure. Birds of prey, or raptors, use ledges in the area for nesting. They often return to the same site each year.
According to a press release, chicks successfully fledged from two prairie falcon nests and one golden eagle nest.
According to the BLM, fledging is a development stage where young birds begin growing feathers used for flight. During that time, they begin to practice flying.
The successful end to nesting means that climbers can enjoy the world-class terrain again.
Why did the BLM issue voluntary climbing closures for Indian Creek?
During the nesting season, climber-caused disturbances can impact egg incubation and the raising of young birds.
According to the agency’s website, the voluntary climbing closures are “critical” for wildlife.
One University of Illinois study found that disturbances can cause birds to leave their nest more frequently or for longer. It can also reduce incubation temperatures.
Chirp, a birding center based in California, said that incubation temperature plays a role in helping birds develop within an egg. By sitting on their eggs, birds regulate their temperature.
If an egg is not warm enough, it can have negative impacts on the chick within.
Over time, lower incubation temperatures could result in bird population declines, the University of Illinois said.
The voluntary closures help minimize the disturbances, allowing birds a chance to care for their young.
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