In the late summer months the fall migration of birds coming in from the north bring large numbers of birds who are either passing through or planning to winter in Florida. The birds of prey usually arrive riding the high thermal winds of the first cold front. During the first few weeks of October, many people watch the skies hoping to see the Eagles and Peregrine Falcons among many other species. Their arrival triggers the annual formation of multi-species “feeding flocks” which consist of many species gathered together. This a way to maximize the use of the habitat and provide the mutual protection resulting in so many more eyes being alert for the birds prey who might normally eat them. Imagine each species in the flock needing something different on their daily menu. Some like large seeds, some like small seeds, some like nectar or sap and so many like insects…insects inside the tree, insects on the fly, insects that hide under the bark, some on the ground, some in spider webs, like a smorgasboard. One bird might scare an insect into a niche that another bird specializes in while it’s eating seeds, another might be looking for food hopping upward the tree which another is looking for food hopping downward. The result is maximizing the use and availability of the food sources. But the flock itself seems then to be a most excellent opportunity for a bird of prey…if that bird can “pinpoint” the location of the prey. The feeding flock also modifies each species bird calls to a series of high pitched drawn out “seep” sounds. That’s how a birdwatcher or a hawk knows that a feeding flock is in the area, but the calls are designed to make it virtually impossible to pinpoint the exact location of each bird and the flock is constantly moving through the habitat scavenging food. Each bird moves along following the special calls and calling themselves so that the group can stay together and stay safe. This is such a fascinating response to the conditions in the winter habitats. Listen closely, you’re sure to occasionally hear a feeding flock moving through as you’re geo-caching in the natural habitats of Florida!
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.