Field Trip Leader Bios
Read all the biographies here.
A special note about Field Trips
Please arrive at the location indicated 20 minutes prior to your scheduled event. This will allow us time to check you in and ensure the trip leaves promptly. We ask that you follow your field trip leader from the meeting location to the final destination. Anyone arriving after the field trip leader has left may not be able to join the group. Walk-in registration may be available for some events during the weekend of the Festival.
Weather may change a trip's itinerary, but most trips will be conducted rain or shine. The weather in the valley during January is variable. It is generally cold and sometimes rainy, with daytime highs ranging from 50F to 65F.
Be sure to bring the following on your field trips: rain gear, waterproof footwear, layered clothing, binoculars, camera, field identification guide, water and snack or lunch as needed. Please also check out the Tips & Etiquette below to help you enjoy your day to the fullest.
Tips & Etiquette for Bird Watchers
To make your trip more enjoyable for yourself and others, we ask you to please use these following etiquette tips:
- Wear clothing suitable for the weather and area you'll be hiking in. It's practical to layer clothing to accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Wear comfortable shoes that have a good grip and are waterproof when necessary. You may want to take sunscreen, a hat or rain gear.
- Bring binoculars or a scope for a better viewing experience.
- Bring water on long outings to stay hydrated.
- Bring a Field Guide if you are interested in learning more about the birds you see. If you are a beginning birder, look for a guide that specializes in birds of northern California.
- Be courteous to other explorers. Stay with your group and pay attention to your trip leader. Walk quietly and slowly. Do not disrupt animals or damage their habitats (breaking branches, trampling vegetation). Turn off cell phones or other electronic devices. If you are taking children with you, explain to them proper etiquette before the trip. Always behave in a manner that will enhance the image of the birding communities in the eyes of the public.
- Tune up your senses and listen carefully. Scan the horizon and tree canopies. Look to the ground for prints, feathers and other traces of wildlife. Please remove litter and leave natural items where they belong. This will keep it enjoyable for others when they visit.
- No dogs or pets allowed on any Snow Goose Festival event, workshop, or program. Please leave Fido with friends or family and not in the car during a field trip.
Field Trip: Rancho Esquon - Sold Out!
$30 Adult; $15 Youth
Friday, Jan 26, 2024 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Meet at Patrick Ranch Museum (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Description
Just a short drive outside Durham, along the roadways borderingRancho Esquon Snow Geese, Greater White-fronted Geese, and Sandhill Cranes can usually be seen right from your vehicle. Bald Eagles are occasionally spotted perched in the snags along the agricultural wetlands. Upon arrival at Rancho Esquon, we will visit the wildlife bunkhouse and receive a brief orientation about the diverse undertakings of this complex rice ranch. We will then head out to the visit the 1,000-acre restored wetland area, which offers views of high concentrations of waterfowl, raptors, and varied wildlife.This trip is also offered on Saturday.
Field Trip Leaders
Brenda Bebensee
Brenda M Bebensee was born and raised in Gridley, California. She attended CSU, Chico majoring in Photojournalism and Public Relations. After college she worked as a Wholesale Lender in the bay area for 15 years. Brenda moved back to the area to focus on her waterfowl photography. She joined Ducks Unlimited and The California Waterfowl Association, becoming a volunteer for CWA's Wood Duck Program. Brenda first came to Rancho Esquon 8 years ago when she brought Wood Duck Eggs to Loretta Gardiner, the office manager and Hatchery Manager partnered with CWA Egg Salvage Program. Brenda became a volunteer for Loretta helping to clean Brood Ponds, feed, receive, band and release egg salvage ducks at 5 weeks old. She was named Volunteer of the Year by CWA in 2020. In February of this year, Loretta retired from the office and Brenda was hired to replace her as Rancho Esquon, Inc Office Manager. She spends free time photographing waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors at our area refuges, Llano Seco, Sacramento Refuge, Gray lodge, Colusa Refuge, and Private Habitats to photograph and or video the owner's duck hunting.
Brenda Bebensee's Events
- Rancho Esquon (1/26/2024)
- Rancho Esquon (1/27/2024)
Rayme Antonowich
Raymond "Rayme" Antonowich was born and raised in Durham, California, attended Durham High School and graduated California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. After receiving a degree in Agricultural Production, he returned home to Durham. Rayme gained expertise in farming through his Family Business, Antonowich Farms and Antonowich Huller, his involvement with FFA, various water boards, and life experiences. In 2003 he was hired as a consultant for Rancho Esquon, Inc developing the orchards, rebuilding roads, improving and maintaining the fish ladders and dam on Butte Creek, planting and developing our wetland habitat, where millions of waterfowl, shore birds, songbirds and raptors stop to feed and rest as they migrate south traveling the Pacific Flyaway. In 2016, Rayme became General Ranch Manager of Rancho Esquon, Inc. He continues to better the ranch you see today, tackling obstacles, and continuing growth and development. He is involved in State, District and Local Water boards, protecting not only Rancho Esquon, but all area farms.
Rayme Antonowich's Events
- Rancho Esquon (1/26/2024)
- Rancho Esquon (1/27/2024)