By: Kyle Grammatica
Grab some water, sunscreen, and your smartphone, and get ready for a one-of-a-kind scavenger hunt around Florida!
From May 1st to May 9th, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is hosting Florida WildQuest, a unique scavenger hunt for all ages at Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) around the state. The smartphone-based scavenger hunt will have you hiking through some of Florida’s best natural spots, taking photos, learning trivia, winning prizes, and, most importantly, making memories!
To get ready for WildQuest, download the free scavenger hunt app GooseChase on your smartphone or tablet. With GooseChase you can snap photos, record videos, and answer prompts. You’ll be able to track your progress and see how you’re faring against others. Once you have your app set up, it’s time to pick a WMA and start your scavenger hunt! WildQuest can be played at any of the lead WMAs in Florida, but some have special quests you can go on. To begin playing you’ll need to find your game code and enter it into the GooseChase app. There are codes for “WildQuest Jr.,” a game designed for families with young children, and “Master WildQuest” for adults and teens. And if you’re visiting one of the following featured WMAs, you can find codes for custom WildQuest games:
- Big Bend Wildlife Management Area, Tide Swamp Unit in Steinhatchee.
- Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area in Punta Gorda.
- Chinsegut Wildlife and Environmental Area in Brooksville.
- Guana River Wildlife Management Area in Ponte Vedra Beach.
- J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area in West Palm Beach.
- L. Kirk Edwards Wildlife and Environmental Area in Tallahassee.
- Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area in Christmas.
When you complete missions, you’ll earn points; once you earn 2,000 points you will be entered into a random drawing for prizes, including binoculars, field guide packs, and t-shirts.
Studies show time in nature improves your physical and mental health and reduces stress. Now more than ever we need nature, and we are fortunate to have access to over 6 million acres of wildlife management areas. This land connects us to the healing beauty of nature and deserves to be protected for generations to come. Support the conservation of Florida’s wild beauty by donating here.
