In reading the various books that I have, the term "bunnies" were used in place of "cairns". Seems at least up throught the late 70's, "bunnies" was the term used but I can't find any history on why that word was used. Anybody know? And probably who really cares? But........

Maybe because on some trails they seem to needlessly multiply everywhere?

Is it Bun-ees or Boon-ees?

I never heard the word bunnies used to describe cairns but my friends and I always called them "ducks". Perhaps they are regional terms, eastern US vs western US. Or Europe?

Edit: There is no mention of any bunnies on Wikipedia.

Alpinist wrote:I never heard the word bunnies used to describe cairns but my friends and I always called them "ducks". Perhaps they are regional terms, eastern US vs western US. Or Europe?

Edit: There is no mention of any bunnies on Wikipedia.

No wonder I couldn't find it. That impeckable memory I have is obviosuly failing me- Ducks.

Ducks and cairns are the only terms I have heard or used since about 1970.

Although I have been known to use the phrase "god damn fucking cairns" with considerable frequency.

Yeah, I've only heard "ducks" and "cairns," too.

Marmaduke, maybe you need to spend more time on SP on Easter so you'll learn the difference between ducks and bunnies; the Easter basket isn't cutting it.

Marmaduke wrote:No wonder I couldn't find it. That impeckable memory I have is obviosuly failing me- Ducks.

Ducks do peck, but not as much as geese.

I can't find any history on why that word was used. Anybody know?

Because they look like ducks.

In the US, I've heard "ducks" and "cairns."

But in Iceland they're called "priests" -- because they show others the way, but never go there themselves.

I usually call them Liberals and dismember them!

- (That one was for you Marmaduke!)

(Disclaimer: I know about 95% of SP would not like this statement so please do not take offense. No harm intended, merely a joke).