Rascal's Roost Traditional Cache
Runninrabbit: The stumps in this area have been torn up and a fence is being placed here. Thanks for visiting.
-
Difficulty:
-
-
Terrain:
-
Size: 
(micro)
Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions
in our disclaimer.
Cammoed film canister near a cemetary and popular turkey vulture roost.
The turkey vulture is one of the only birds in North America with a sense of smell. This vulture relies both on its keen eyesight and powerful nose to search out food.
Contrary to popular belief, circling vultures do not necessarily indicate the presence of a dead animal. Circling vultures may be gaining altitude for long flights, searching for food, or playing. These birds soar on thermals of warm, rising air. This allows them to best conserve their energy in flight. After rising on the thermal, they glide as far as possible before they need to gain altitude again. They also rely on thermals of warm air to remain aloft while scanning the ground for food.
You will certainly see vultures in the air over a carcass, but in the case of small carcasses, the descent is rapid. As for larger carcasses, while remaining on the lookout for food, vultures are equally attuned to their fellow vultures. They note when others' behavior indicates the discovery of a food source, and will flock to the area. Often, the entire group will remain aloft until sufficient birds have arrived to dispose of the carcass in a timely fashion.
Many locals in the area have told me that Olivet and Garden Road is one of the largest roosts belonging to these rascals in New Jersey. Visit this cache in fall or winter and you can see the haunting scene of how they roost atop the church steeple. It is an eery sight! Also near the cache sight you will find very old headstones.
Please replace as found. Special thanks to Dragonfly mommom my favorite science and nature geek who told me about the local vultures of Olivet.
Hope this rascal finds you feeling RUMMY!! Thanks for visiting Salem County!
UPDATE: The vegetation has changed in the area so I slightly moved this cache which caused me to lower the difficulty- enjoy!!!
Additional Hints
(No hints available.)