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Avian Exotic Multi-cache

This cache has been archived.

exoticdvm: Like the Great Auk, Passenger Pigeon, and the Ivory-billed Woodpecker.... this cache has gone extinct. 'Twas quite a fun 4-stager back in its heyday. We recently visited the cache zone at night and were delighted to tick off our lifer Eastern Whip-poor-will as well as hear the nocturnal calls of Great Horned Owls and Eastern Screech Owls. There aren't quite as many Hill Mynahs and other parrot species as there were in the park back in 2007.... bird populations change and life goes on. Our lives have evolved as well and geocaching has taken a back seat to other activities. So we've decided to let this one go. Thanks for all the support and the finds over the last decade -- cache on!

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Hidden : 1/7/2007
Difficulty:
3.5 out of 5
Terrain:
3.5 out of 5

Size: Size:   micro (micro)

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Geocache Description:

Challenging 4-stage multicache. First 3 stages are micros on terrain of moderate difficulty. Final stage is [temporarily a micro container]; the route to it requires some tricky footing to hold your attention! Dense tree cover may hinder GPS signal in some areas. Bring binoculars along to enjoy the "exotic" theme of this cache.

Avian Exotic cache exists to promote awareness about Miami’s “wild” exotic bird population. Florida, particularly Dade county, probably contains more exotic (introduced, non-native) birds than any other U.S. state. Many of these bird species are now established residents in the state of Florida, with breeding populations that will continue to persist, often to the detriment of native species. Most of these have been accidental or intentional releases by pet owners. During the search for this cache, you will most likely encounter some of these exotic bird species, including these that I have personally witnessed in this area:

Indian Hill Mynah
Quaker Parakeet
Canary-winged Parakeet
White-fronted Amazon
Blue & Gold Macaw
Mitred Conure

Click here for bird photos.

With the exception of the Quaker Parakeet, all of these birds nest in cavities. In Florida, these cavities are generally abandoned woodpecker holes in dead palm trees, many of which are visible from the main trail on the west side of this park. Natural crevices are also sometimes used. Although parrots and parakeets are highly gregarious in feeding flocks and at night roosts, they are generally solitary nesters.

While these birds are attractive and interesting to watch, please never release a non-native exotic pet of ANY kind out into the wild! More information on Florida’s exotic birds can be found here.

A few recommendations:
Wear shoes with adequate traction for some areas of tricky footing
Bring binoculars along to view some of the local bird life
Bring water
Have fun!!!

HINT UPDATE 1/7/12: ALL HINTS HAVE BEEN MODIFIED FOLLOWING A CACHE REPAIR.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

[Stage 1:] Fvyire gnt nobir gur yriry bs gur 2k2 Uhzna’f crepu. Lbh jvyy arrq gb trg hc bss gur tebhaq sbe guvf bar. [Stage 2:] Tbyq gnt ba onzobb; gnt vf nccebk 2' bss tebhaq. [Stage 3:] Tbyq gnt ba snyyra gerr; gnt vf nccebk 5' bss tebhaq. [Stage 4:] Grzcbenevyl n zvpeb pbagnvare cynprq va cnyz fghzc.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)