Field Trip Leader Bios
Read all the biographies here.
A special note about Field Trips
Please arrive at the location indicated 30 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. Most field trips will be limited to the first 20 reservations. 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 their habitats. Turn off cell phones or other electronic devices. If you are taking children with you, explain to them proper etiquette before the trip.
- 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.
Field Trip: Colusa National Wildlife Refuge
$27 Adult; $10 Youth
Friday, Jan 29, 2016 8:30 am - 2:00 pm
Meet at Patrick Ranch (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Wheelchair accessible
Description
Wildlife, wintering waterfowl, and nature photography are exceptional at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge, especially along the three-mile gravel auto tour, one-mile trail, and at their new observation deck. With over 4500 acres of wetlands, seasonal marshes, and uplands, the refuge supports wintering populations of more than 200,000 ducks and 100,000 geese. Spectacular flights of Snow Geese and Ross’s Geese along with thousands of Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Mallard, Gadwall, and Northern Shovelers can be seen in the marshes.
Field Trip Leader
Joseph O'Neil
Joseph O'Neil is a Certified Arborist with over 30 years of experience in the tree and nursery field, working at Mendon's Nursery in Paradise for 9 years and currently as a consulting arborist. He has an Art degree from CSU Chico and has traveled the North State extensively. He’s been birding since 2003 and loves sharing his knowledge regarding tree resources for birds.
Joseph O'Neil's Events
- Colusa National Wildlife Refuge (1/29/2016)
- Birds & Trees of the Genetic Resource and Conservation Center (1/30/2016)
- Birds & Trees of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve (1/31/2016)