The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced on April 1 that its annual Florida WildQuest scavenger hunt will take place from April 25 to May 3. The event invites residents and visitors of all ages to explore the state’s Wildlife Management Areas using the GooseChase app, where participants can complete a series of missions for a chance to win prizes.
WildQuest is designed to encourage public engagement with Florida’s conservation lands while promoting outdoor recreation. Participants are encouraged to bring sun protection, bug spray, snacks, water, and check for any required daily-use permit fees before visiting a management area. The commission noted that cell service may be unreliable in some locations but participants can upload their photos and videos later.
To join the event, individuals need to download the GooseChase app, create an account, enter the game code EBN6F2, and visit various wildlife areas during the event period. Completing at least ten missions along with a short survey makes participants eligible for a prize drawing scheduled for May 12 at 10 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. All entries must be submitted by midnight on May 3.
The commission has been influenced by figures such as Lovett Williams who contributed significantly to wildlife research as highlighted on its official history page. It secures external grants representing over forty percent of its funding in support of critical research projects according to its official website. Public access and input are promoted in decision-making processes as part of efforts to foster conservation among diverse communities according to its official website.
The agency also features specialized facilities like the Wildlife Research Laboratory in Gainesville with animal holding pens and equipment for studies as noted on its history page, including an alligator egg incubator and pens used previously for brown pelican restocking as described there. Its mission focuses on protecting, conserving, and managing fish and wildlife resources through research expertise according to its mission page.
WildQuest reflects broader goals by encouraging Floridians’ connection with nature while supporting ongoing conservation efforts across public lands.
