Another cache to find while exploring Bayer's Island. This is a bird nesting area at certain times of the year; stick to the trail and obey any posted signs please while you enjoy the spectacular coastline in this area. Difficulty rating is based on the last 275m along the steep ridge of a shingle beach—watch your step. Flies and mosquitoes may become unbearable on the island at certain times of the year. Come prepared for this possibility.
Update (July 9, 2018): the tree did not fare well after the winter storms and is now on the ground. Some branches remain intact and are a decorated with buoys, while much of the other nautical decorations are in a pile on the fallen tree. The cache has been repositioned in order to be accessible (Thanks, THE RED FOX RAIDERS!) Update: the tree may have washed around some on the beach, and one geocacher reports the coords may be out as much as 20m. Trust your geo-instincts to find the likely location.
Congratulations to jajakeiz and dog-lion on the FTF!
The cache is situated on land protected by the Nature Conservancy of Canada, in the Musquodoboit Harbour. Piping Plovers, a federally endangered species, have been known to nest along the sand dunes on Martinique beach. This area also supports coastal forest and barrens ecosystems, providing a complex and delicate habitat for many migratory bird species. The Nature Conservancy of Canada is a national non-profit land conservation organization and they encourage you to enjoy the Nature Reserve, but be respectful of its protected status by staying near the trails and respecting all signage. If you would like more information on the Musquodoboit Harbour Natural Area, please contact our Nova Scotia office: TF: 902-405-4334 nova.scotia@natureconservancy.ca