BAR HARBOR, Maine — Three individuals are facing charges after they allegedly violated a wildlife protection closure within Acadia National Park on July 24.
The protection closure was enacted to protect the vulnerable peregrine falcon population.
Shortly after 11 a.m. that day, park rangers received a report about three individuals, two males and one female, who were seen partway up the Precipice Trail, a news release from the national park said Friday.
"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," the release stated.
The bird species is federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
"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," Acadia National Park explained. "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."
According to the park, the closure of the Precipice Trail is "clearly marked" at the trail site, and widely publicized across several platforms, including the park's official website and social media pages.
The national park is now investigating the incident in what they are calling "several violations."
The three individuals have been identified as 22-year-old Levi Brown of South Portland, 20-year-old Cooper Boucher of Saco, and 19-year-old Jillian McLellan of Saco, Acadia National Park spokesperson Amanda Pollock told NEWS CENTER Maine on Tuesday.
Pollock said the individuals were charged with violation of a superintendent's closure, a Class B misdemeanor.
The misdemeanor is punishable by up to six months in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.
"It was nice to see the public concerned with the health and well-being of the peregrines, just as we are," Pollock said.
Those who may have more information can call the National Park Service tip line at 888-653-0009, submit a tip online here, or email nps_isb@nps.gov.
