Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Seasonal Wildlife Closure

From December 1 to February 28 (or 29 if leap year), Soapstone Prairie Natural Area is closed to all entry and use-types. This seasonal closure is in place to protect wintering wildlife.

Winter wildlife closures are critical for the survival of deer, elk, antelope, bighorn sheep, and other species during the most stressful time of their year. These animals do not hibernate, and must survive winter by conserving energy and relying on fat reserves built up in warmer months. When people or pets disturb them, it forces them to flee, burning calories they can’t afford to lose. Respecting closures helps wildlife avoid starvation and safely give birth in the spring.

As the landscape greens up, animals are at the very end of their energy reserves. Most winter mortality actually occurs in the spring, when animals are weakest and food is still scarce. That’s why it’s essential to respect the full duration of seasonal closures, even when conditions start to look inviting.