Jeffery Maurer, a Wildlife Biologist at Yosemite National Park, died Sunday after falling from a climbing route on the eastern edge of the park.
Maurer, an avid rock climber, fell 50 feet from the Third Pillar, a difficult and technical climbing route on Mount Dana, park officials said.
Maurer, 47, taught at UC Davis as well as the Yosemite Institute. He conducted research on raptors such as peregrine falcons, great gray owls and northern goshawks. He received a master’s degree from UC Davis in avian science.
“We are deeply saddened by Jeff’s death,” said Yosemite Institute Director Leigh Westerlund in a statement. “Jeff was part of the Yosemite Institute extended family. His deep connection to Yosemite was evident to all who knew him. All of us at Yosemite Institute feel this loss. Our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.“
