Meet Frank & Matilda: The Finch Couple Living Rent-Free on a Tiki Boat
If you’re on the lookout for some fun and unique things to do in Big Bear, you might expect to see beautiful trees or sparkling water, not a pair of finches who have made our tiki boat their home. Meet Frank and Matilda, our favorite come and go residents! This feathered couple is one of the most memorable local highlights you can encounter on the lake.
Key Takeaways
Here’s your quick snapshot guide into what we’ll cover:
The Stubborn Starters: How Frank and Matilda outsmarted our crew and claimed the tiki boat as their own.
The Great Relocation: The thrilling story of their move to Pleasure Point Marina and Matilda’s hilarious revenge.
Feathered Deckhands: What it’s like sharing your cruise with hitchhiking mountain wildlife.
Are you ready to meet our tiny co-captains? Book your Big Bear Tiki Tour today so you get the best seat on the lake!
Meeting the Crew: The Backstory of Frank & Matilda
Last summer at John’s Harbor, this tiny duo unexpectedly sailed right on in, successfully raising their babies through June just before our public cruises launched. Worried about the chicks’ safety once our regular Big Bear Tiki Tours kicked off, we tried taking the nest down for four days straight.
Frank and Matilda, however, had other plans. They rebuilt their entire nest overnight, every single night, determined to cruise with our captains and guests on Big Bear Lake. Knowing we couldn’t deter them, we finally caved in and let them stay.
The Move to Pleasure Point (and Matilda’s Revenge)
Our move to Pleasure Point this season had us worried about our feathered passengers. Matilda had active eggs, and so we feared abandonment. Instead, the couple surprised us by following us all the way to our new home.
Two days after landing, they flew in to angrily chirp at us, and Lindsay learned firsthand that hell hath no fury like a protective mother finch. While she was swabbing and staining the deck, Matilda took perfect poop shots, landing a few well-aimed shots on the broom and Lindsay herself. Honestly, we’re not mad; she just thought we took her babies on the best boat rides in Big Bear without her!
Life on a Tiki Boat: Hitchhiking & Wildlife
Today, Frank and Matilda are officially considered part of the Big Bear Tiki Tours crew, often hitchhiking on our daily cruises. As such, seeing them is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Big Bear.
Frank and Matilda aren’t the only local celebrities you can meet! Our tiny co-captains are a great bridge to the lake’s larger avian ecosystem. During our trips, you can scan the canopy to follow the famous Big Bear Bald Eagles or even enjoy the friendly ducks we regularly feed directly from the side of the boat.
Pro Tips for Spotting Big Bear Lake Wildlife
Looking to increase your chances of spotting wildlife? Start by looking up toward the boat’s bamboo framing where Frank and Matilda love to hang out. These finches make our excursions one of the best boat rides in Big Bear!
You can also scan the shoreline and canopy for majestic bald eagles or waterfowl waiting to be greeted. Just remember, nature runs on its own schedule, making each tour special, because you’ll never know what to expect.
Experience Big Bear Tiki Tours Yourself
Ready to experience paradise? Imagine relaxed tropical vibes and beautiful mountain lake views surrounding you. Regardless of what type of cruise you decide on, public or private, these are the best boat rides in Big Bear. Most exciting of all, keep your eyes peeled for our feathered deckhands!
Ready to meet the most famous feathered crew members on the lake or experience some serene mountain views? Our tropical cruises sell out fast, so make sure to book yours today.