Special thanks to Mossy Moss for placing these caches and allowing us to take them over.
This cache (like all the ones in the series) shows off some of the amazing wildlife you might see at this amazing lake.
Nestled in between HWY 1 and Lougheed HWY, Burnaby Lake is a truly urban park. Despite this, there are many amazing animals and plants that call this park home.
Ardea herodias is the scientific name of the Great Blue Heron. The Great Blue Heron is listed in Canada as a species of special concern, meaning it is become rarer and almost endangered. Despite this, there are thriving populations in the lower mainland. There are large groups of them that nest in Stanley Park and at Tsawwassen, as well as a population living at nearby Deer Lake. These birds fly to other place to feed, including Burnaby Lake. These birds are amazing at catching fish. They have very long,wading legs so they can slowly stalk through the water. When they find a perfect location, they stand completely still, waiting patiently for fish to come to them. When fish are nearby they quickly grab them with their long beaks. As you paddle around here, look very carefully for these elegant birds carefully fishing. You can also see these birds resting, standing on the rowing platforms and pillars around the lake.
To reach this cache you require some sort of vessel. Kayaks or canoes would work best. In summer the lake becomes covered with water lilies which might make paddling difficult. In August the water level gets very low and it will be hard to launch from Piper Spit. Paddle very carefully to avoiding getting stuck.
In the center of the lake is a rowing course. It isn't usually busy, but if there are rowers on the lake please take care to stay out of the rowing lanes.
This cache is a small water bottle. It is tied very carefully to prevent it from falling in the water, please do not untie it.
Other caches in the series:
GC2XQVC: Neovison vison
GC2XQRB: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
GC2xQW7: Cyprinus carpio
GC3QYYA: Castor canadensis