The Wood Stork is North America’s only true stork. The wood storks in Florida are at the northern end of their natural range, found also in Mexico and Latin America. In Florida they were historically known as “Flintheads” because of the grey folds of unfeathered skin on their upper neck and head. These true storks have a black tail and wingtips offset by the white feathered body. The wingspread sometimes reaches five and a half feet. Unlike herons, wood storks do not find their food by sight. They wade in 8 to 10 inches of water and groping with an open bill. When they feel something the bill snaps shut. They feed on minnows, frogs and even small alligators and this method of fishing requires large concentrations of prey. Deeper water lessens the concentration of prey making it difficult for the wood storks to find enough food.
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.