There are several rodent species that can be found living in the
wild in Florida. Some mice include: the Florida Mouse, the Cotton
Mouse and the Oldfield Mouse. These mice are not to be confused
with the Key Largo Wood Rat (an endangered species in the Florida
Keys) or the Black Rat (an invasive exotic which has spread
throughout the US).
What's the
difference between a mouse and a rat? Typically, mice are smaller
and rats are larger. However, the words, "rat" and "mouse" are NOT
scientific classifications.
Some may say that
rats have tails longer than their bodies but the Key Largo Wood Rat
is an exception to this generalization. Not all rats are bad, but
we do have significant issues with the Black Rat in the United
States. The Black Rat is an invasive exotic introduced by early
settlers. They spread quickly, invading the habitat of the native
rodents. They have been seen in some of the older structures of
Highlands Hammock. So, we know that they are here and they could be
impacting the populations of other rodents which naturally occur in
the park.
I have often seen
mice at night on these trails. They may be Florida Mice or Cotton
Mice. They are difficult to identify as they are so elusive and
similar in appearance. The only real way to tell is by looking at
their feet, as their habitats often overlap and a determination can
not be made based on size and color alone. Florida mice have five
pads on their feet, while cotton mice have six or
seven.
Have you ever
seen a native mouse?
This geocache is
placed in Highlands Hammock State Park with the permission of park
management. All locations must be approved by the Volunteer
Geocache Coordinator Sarah Straub (DTISarah@gmail.com) and adhere
to the guidelines set by the park for geocache
placement.
Vehicles are not
permitted to park on any roadway within the park boundary. All
vehicles must park within designated parking areas. The park is
open from 8:00AM until sundown, 365 days a year. The admission fees
are as follows: $6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle. $2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra
passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual
Entrance Pass. Camping is available in the park as well.
Highlands
Hammock State Park's Website
For more
information about accessing cache locations please visit the ranger
station to view a copy of Essential Eligibility Criteria for
Geocaching at Highlands Hammock State Park.
Please remember
to cache responsibly and stay on designated trails.