Please take care to replace cache securely. Some stealth may be required for this P&G in order to not draw attention. A path has already somewhat been made that leads to the cache. Don't make it harder than it has to be :)
Use caution if searching after sunset, as many desert critters are known to frequent this area. Keep reading to learn more about identifying them! BYOP, stay safe and have fun!
~ Congrats to VW_WLFZBRG for FTF! ~
Additional cache-related information:
The Arizona desert landscape provides the perfect place for many animals and plants to thrive under the hot sun! Ever wondered what kind of wildlife you may stumble across while out on the trails?
One helpful method for identifying species is to look for prints or tracks in the ground. This identification guide, courtesy of The Southwest Arizona Track and Scat Glovebox Guide, (see cals-mac.arizona.edu) is a handy tool that covers various animals that call the valley their home. How many of these tracks have you discovered?
Another, slightly grosser way to discover more about the creatures who live among us is by investigating patterns and characteristics of scat left behind. Yes, animal poop is a great resource for identification purposes! Also located in The Southwest Arizona Track and Scat Glovebox Guide, (see cals-mac.arizona.edu) the illustrative key below describes the basics of studying scat. This is one of those situations where a "look, don't touch" rule will likely apply!
Regardless of how you spend your time exploring the desert, please always make your safety a priority. Never approach or attempt to touch or feed any desert animal, and always use caution when near dens, burrows, caves, or other dwellings. While many wild animals are harmless and docile, some species of snakes, spiders, scorpions, along with large predatory creatures, are capable of delivering a nasty sting, bite, or scratch. Respect these animals' space and calmly leave the area without confrontation if you stumble upon one.
Please do not attempt to pick up, photograph, or provoke them. If while on these trails you find venemous or otherwise dangerous animals in any place frequented by humans where others may be at risk, it may be wise to contact Maricopa County Animal Services at 602-506-7387, the Arizona Wildlife Commision at 602-942-3000, or the Phoenix police department at 602-262-762. However, animals will typically not attempt to fight back or harm humans unless threatened, so it is often best to simply remove yourself from the area and wait until the animal has moved on.
All Arizona wildlife has unique beauty and deserves to be respected--please help keep the desert clean and do your part to ensure the health and safety of our plants and animals. Happy desert caching!