News Release

Acadia National Park seeking to identify multiple suspects violating wildlife protection closure

Date: August 2, 2024
Contact: Amanda Pollock, 207-288-8806

Photo 1 of 3 depicting suspects violating wildlife closure put in place to protect nesting peregrine falcons.

NPS Photo

Bar Harbor, MAINE – Park Rangers of Acadia National Park are investigating multiple violations of a wildlife protection closure within the park put in place to protect the vulnerable peregrine falcon population.

On July 24, 2024, at 11:06 a.m., US Park Rangers received a report that three individuals (two males, one female - see photos) were seen partway up the Precipice Trail. Most of the east face of Champlain Mountain, including the entirety of the Precipice Trail, is closed for several months every year to support the protection of Peregrine Falcons, their nesting sites, and surrounding habitat. Peregrine Falcons are a federally protected species under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. §§703-712).

Research has shown that nesting peregrine falcons are particularly vulnerable to human activities, which can disturb the adults and make them less attentive to the eggs or chicks. Human activities near a nesting area can lead to temporary or permanent abandonment of the nest by the adults leaving chicks susceptible to hypothermia, starvation, and predation.

This closure is clearly marked at the trail site, and it is widely publicized across various platforms, including Acadia National Park’s official website and social media accounts.Information from other visitors is often very helpful to investigators. If you were in the area of the Precipice Trail on July 24, 2024, or if you have information that could help, please contact us. You don’t have to tell us who you are, but please tell us what you know.

CALL the NPS Tip Line 888-653-0009
ONLINE go.nps.gov/SubmitATip EMAIL [e-mail]
EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1