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Field Trip Leader Biographies
Read all the biographies here.
Field Trip Ratings
The following rating system for field trips will give you an idea for the rigors involved.
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Mostly birding by car and/or easy walking |
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Walking, could involve distance but largely flat |
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More vigorous hiking, some elevation gain/loss |
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A true adventure trip, lots of driving and hiking |
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Wheelchair accessible |
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. After that, a waiting list will be generated by calling our office. Walk-in registration may be available for some events during the weekend of the Festival, but cannot be guaranteed, and there will be an “at the door” charge.
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.
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.
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 Marathon Big Day Birding
$20 Adult; $7 Youth
6:30 am - 5:30 pm
Meet at Chico Park and Ride
Be prepared for an exciting and exhaustive quest to see the maximum number of northern California bird species possible between dawn and dusk! We’ll go high for species like Evening Grosbeak and Varied Thrush. At mid-elevation we’ll watch for California Thrasher and Golden Eagle. In the plains we expect Ferruginous and Rough-Legged Hawks and we’ll go low for Eurasian Wigeon and other rare waterfowl. Expect more than 100 species on this fun, fast-paced adventure! Bring lunch, water, and binoculars.
Field Trip Leaders: Scott Huber
Llano Seco Ranch Fly-Off and Fly-Over
$15 Adult; $5 Youth
3:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Meet at Chico Creek Nature Center
This is a “behind the gates” opportunity to visit the historic Llano Seco Ranch where thousands of acres are set aside for wildlife habitat. These wetlands attract wintering waterfowl as well as numerous migratory and non-migratory birds and raptor species. We’ll hear about the ranches’ rich history and wildlife-friendly farming practices. The highlight will be witnessing the fly-out and flyover of thousands of waterfowl at dusk. Dress warmly and bring your lawn chair and hot chocolate to enjoy as we wait for the skies to fill with thousands of birds!
Field Trip Leaders: Joe Silveira and Dick Thieriot
Owl Banding and Survey
$15 Adult; $5 Youth
5:30 pm - 9 pm
Meet at Chico Park and Ride
This is a rare chance to observe an owl research project. Using mist nets and an audio lure we will attempt to catch Northern Saw-whet and Western Screech Owls. We also hope to detect Northern Pygmy and Great Horned Owls by their calls.
Field Trip Leaders: Dawn Garcia and Mike Fisher |
