Big Pinnacle in Pilot Mountain State Park in North Carolina is the nesting site of the Common Raven. They are on a watch list which means they are considered rare but not in danger from a conservation standpoint. On a walk around the base of the pinnacle, they can be seen soaring high above the trees. Even though they are part of the crow family, they soar and perform aerial acrobatics like the hawks.
The Big Pinnacle has been closed to the public since the late 70s. The old staircase by which one reached the summit finally fell apart and was removed. I remember climbing that staircase. It was back in the 60s and I think I was about 5 years old. It's not something I would do now, but I'm glad to have had the experience - even if my memories are vague.
Not only is Big Pinnacle a haven for rare birds such as the Raven, as well as Falcons, Woodpeckers and Turkey Vultures, it's 4 acres contain rare ecological features not normally found in this area. Among these is a rare oak called the Bear Oak, which is on the Threatened list and found in only four locations in the state. For these reasons, the Big Pinnacle will remain closed in order to preserve our treasures.
Some Raven facts:
- Ravens are the largest bird in the crow family.
- They weigh around 3 pounds.
- They have a wing span of over 3 feet.
- They are intelligent, with the ability to learn a series of tasks to reach a goal.
- The Raven's call can express a wide range of emotions.
- They live from the desert to the coniferous forest to coastal cliffs.
Speaking of Ravens, congratulations to the Baltimore Ravens on winning the Super Bowl.
