Part of the Family Fun Introduction to Geocaching Series around Waneka Lake
Watch the Birdie: See and Learn about Native Birds & Plants
A great little stop on our Waneka Lake Family Introduction to Geocaching series, especially if you love native birds and plants. This is a nano-cache (meaning really small, just a bit larger than the eraser on a pencil). The log is also quite small and will require expert hands to wind it up again into a small enough roll to fit back into the container. A pair of tweezers might be needed to pull the log out and put it back in, and you will need to bring your own pen. This small type of cache is very common in the cache-o-verse.
MUGGLE WARNING!
Muggles are people who are unaware of Geocaching (feel free to turn them into Geo Witches/Warlocks). Sadly, Muggles have been known to pillage/take/destroy caches either out of their lack of knowledge or out of other less than savory motivations. This cache is on an exceptionally busy muggle route, so be sure no one notices you removing the cache or replacing it. Be a bit stealthy ... like you're sneaking a cookie from the pantry while your parents are in the kitchen.
GEOCACHING ETIQUETTE
1. Put Back as Found: Pay careful attention to exacly how you remove a cache from its hiding spot, as you you should put it back exactly the same way. Note: Not everyone does this. Look for any instructions the Cache Owner (CO) provides on how the cache should be removed or put back. This includes any requests to place any native camo back over the cache.
2. Sign the Log: The paper log is there to track those cool people who have found the cache and provide a rich history to both the owners and the finders. In addition to logging online, be sure sign and date the paper log. And of course, fill out the digital log on your App or computer, as well. When you can, take the time to write something nice or fun about your hunt and find ... the CO will really appreciate it.
3. Be Discrete: Muggles aboud, and not all become Dumbledors ... some go the way of Voldemort. Don't be too obvious in your hunt or finds.
4. Field Reports: If you find anything wrong with the cache, or see a problem, let the CO know via your log or a message.
5. Favorites: If you really enjoyed the hunt or find, be sure to Favorite the cache in the App or on your computer. That will give the CO a smile and let other Cachers know that this is a good cache to find.
While you're there you and the family can enjoy the attractions below:
Nearby Learning Center
There is a small learning center nearby that is staffed in later mornnings and early afternoons and has lots of activities and a knowledgable guide on native plants and animals. There is also interpretive signage to help out when the center is not open.
Bird Watching for Beginners Classes
Free introductory classes on birdwatching are held the First Sunday of each month, May-November, at the nearby Wildlife Viewing Platform.
Look for our other nearby caches in the Family Fun Intro to Geocaching Series:
- Naruto Team 7 Stash Cache
- Kick Back, Stretch Out Cache
- The Cube Root of Twenty-seven Cache
- Squirrel's Stash Cache by Smudgie Cat
- Boathouse View Cache
- The Likey Lichen Cache* (requires membership)
Don't forget to leave a Favorite if you like the hunt and find!