10 September 2026
Alert at Ptero Cliffs
Alert
Early this morning keepers recorded a string of aggressive sorties by territorial Pteranodons around the nesting ledges. Nest activity in the Ptero Cliffs has surged — the approaching change in incubation timing is prompting adults to intensify defense of their nests.
As a precaution, several lower approach trails beneath the cliffs have been temporarily closed and visual monitoring of viewing platforms increased. Staff and guests are asked to avoid the lower paths and refrain from lingering in low-flight corridors until further notice.
Keepers report the attacks are largely deterrent in nature — birds are avoiding large stationary objects and targeting moving points close to nests. No human or large-animal injuries have been reported; photographic documentation and beak fragment samples have been forwarded to the research team for behavior monitoring.
Redirecting visitor flow and reinforcing nest protection are ongoing. Intensity of defensive sorties is expected to subside by the end of the week as nesting behavior stabilizes. Please follow keeper updates and observe temporary access restrictions to lower routes.
As a precaution, several lower approach trails beneath the cliffs have been temporarily closed and visual monitoring of viewing platforms increased. Staff and guests are asked to avoid the lower paths and refrain from lingering in low-flight corridors until further notice.
Keepers report the attacks are largely deterrent in nature — birds are avoiding large stationary objects and targeting moving points close to nests. No human or large-animal injuries have been reported; photographic documentation and beak fragment samples have been forwarded to the research team for behavior monitoring.
Redirecting visitor flow and reinforcing nest protection are ongoing. Intensity of defensive sorties is expected to subside by the end of the week as nesting behavior stabilizes. Please follow keeper updates and observe temporary access restrictions to lower routes.