Snow Goose 2018

Snow G ooSe FeStival of the Pacific flyway • 2018 Your official Guide

Experience the Sights, Sounds, & Wonders of Birds at the

19th Annual Snow Goose Festival of the Pacific Flyway!

January 24 –28, 2018 Chico, CA

This action-packed five-day event celebrates the remarkable journey of millions of waterfowl and raptors along the Pacific Flyway that call the Northern Sacramento Valley their home during the winter months.

• Over 80 guided field trips & workshops • Junior Naturalist Activities & Live Raptors • Snow Goose Festival Wildlife Art Exhibit & Reception • Banquet & Silent Auction • Keynote Speaker, Jon L. Dunn, Author & Bird Guide

Snow Goose Festival Headquarters Chico Masonic Family Center 1110 W. east ave., chico Wednesday – Sunday January 24 – 28, 2018

ONLINE REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

Photo by Mike Peters

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Reservations Daily • 898-9948 Take-Out • 898-9947 (Delivery by Entree Express) Corner of 5th/Ivy Open 11:30 Mon-Sat • Sun @ 4pm

Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary & Educational Center

When you are ready to talk, we are here to listen.

Butte/Glenn: (530) 891-1331 tehama: (530) 529-3980

Open Tuesday-Sunday 9AM to 5PM Located at 4995 Durham-Pentz Rd., Oroville, CA 95965 (530) 533-1000 or on the web at: www.kirshner.org Visitors are welcome to walk on their own with no appointment necessary.

Admission fees: Adults: $10 Children: $6 We offer 2 hour personal tours by appointment. Please call (530) 533-1000 to set up your personal tour.

Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

The Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary & Educational Center is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization

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Snow GooSe FeStival

J A N U A R Y, 2018

19th Annual Snow Goose Festival

Thank You to our 2018 Sponsors!

Major Sponsors Snow Goose ($2,500 or more)

Altacal Audubon Society

California State Parks Northern Buttes District

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

California Conservation Corps

Hofmann Family Foundation/ Rancho Esquon

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex

REGISTRATION DEADLINES Online Registration: Closes at 12:00pm Tues., Jan. 23 www.snowgoosefestival.org Walk-In Registration:

A TRUE

CHICO TRAD ITION

May be available for some events Wednesday – Sunday at the Chico Masonic Family Center, Snow Goose Festival Headquarters, but cannot be guaranteed. For further information on registration please call: 530-592-9092 Cancellation Policy: No cancellations or refunds will be available online. To cancel and receive a refund, minus a processing fee, you must call or email the Snow Goose Festival office by Monday, January 8, 2018. Beginning Tuesday, January 9, no cancellations or “no shows” will be refunded. If the Snow Goose Festival must cancel an event, registered attendees of that event will be notified via email. Attendees will be offered the following options: • register for substitute activities of the same value • donate registration fee to SGF programs • full refund (allow up to 4 weeks processing)

Open Daily till 10pm • 178 E. 7th St Chico, CA • www.shuberts.com • 530.342.7163

DIRECTIONS TO FESTIVAL LOCATIONS Please take special note of the location your field trip departs from.

River Partners

Chico News & Review

Supporting Sponsors Great Blue Heron ($1,000 or more)

Bell Memorial Union, CSU, Chico (BMU)

Corner of 2nd & Chestnut St., Chico, 530-898-4636. Directions: From U.S. Hwy 99, take the East First Avenue Exit. Proceed west on East First Avenue following signs to campus. After approx. 1.5 miles, turn left on Esplanade, into downtown Chico. Turn right at 2nd St, then three blocks to corner of 2nd St & Chestnut St. If coming from Hwy 32, turn east at the W. 2nd St stoplight. BMU is six blocks, on the left, at corner of 2nd & Chestnut St. FREE PARKING on weekends at Chico State’s parking structure and in lots across the street from the BMU. Chico Creek Nature Center (CcNc)

1968 E. 8th Street, Chico, 530-891-4671. Directions from Chico: From Hwy 99 take the Hwy 32 Chester Exit #385. Head northeast on CA-32 East toward Chester/E. 9th St. Turn left on Fir St., which turns into E. 8th St. The CCNC will be ¾ mile on the left.

Sacramento River Preservation Trust

Rancho Llano Seco

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

The Printed Image

Chico Masonic Family Center (CMFC)

1110 W. East Avenue, Chico. Directions from Chico: From Hwy 99, take East Avenue exit. (two exits north of East 1st Avenue exit.) Turn west on East Avenue.

The CMFC is approx. 1.5 miles from Hwy 99 exit, on the right (north) side of East Avenue. If coming from Nord Avenue on Hwy 32, turn east at the W. East Avenue stoplight. CMFC is on the left, after crossing railroad tracks from the Hwy 32 and East Avenue intersection.

150 Ford Ave, Gridley (Gridley)

150 Ford Avenue, Gridley Directions: Take Hwy 99 South from Chico to Ford Ave and turn right. The church is on the right. Driving time/distance from Chico: 32 minutes, 29 miles.

Tundra Swan ($500 or more)

Snowy Egret ($250 or more)

California Rice Commission

AFC Finishing Systems Chico Chamber of Commerce Friends of Bidwell Park Lundberg Family Farms Western Canal Water District

Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park, 12105 River Road, Chico, 530-342-5185.

Directions: Head west on East Ave. After crossing railroad tracks, turn left onto CA-32 E/Nord Ave. Then turn right at first cross street onto Glenwood Ave. Turn right onto W Sacramento Ave, 3.4 mi. to Indian Fishery, at corner of W Sacramento Ave. & River Road.

White-faced Ibis ($100 or more)

1000 Sale Lane, Red Bluff, 530-527-1196. Directions arriving from Chico on CA-99: Continue onto State Hwy 36W/Antelope Blvd. Turn left on Sale Lane.

Entrance gate is approximately 2 miles down Sale Lane.

Central Valley Joint Venture Chico Creek Nature Center David & Patria Forster/ Yellow Rose Ranch Lake Oroville Marina Northern California Regional Land Trust Oxford Suites Out of this World Optics

Baker’s Birkenstock Friends of Butte Creek Mountain Sports Sacramento River Discovery Center

Indian Fishery Day Use Area

Sacramento River Discovery Center (SRDC)

Snow Goose Festival Wildlife Art Exhibit & Reception

325 Main Street (Chico Children’s Museum, downtown Chico) Studio 561

561 E. Lindo Ave., Chico, 530-370-1285. Directions: Mangrove Ave to E. Lindo, across from S&S Produce.

J A N U A RY, 2018

SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL

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19th Annual SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL FIELD Wednesday, January 24 Thursday, January 25 FIELD TRIPS

FIELD TRIPS

River Partners 4-day Birding Competition NEW

River Partners 4-day Birding Competition NEW

Meet at River Partners Riparian Restoration Sites Get your competitive juices flowing by visiting any (or all) of over 15 riparian restoration sites in the Sacramento Valley. The contest is to see who can find the most bird species on one or more of the projects. See full details on Snow Goose Festival’s website. Adult $25 Level 4

Meet at River Partners Riparian Restoration Sites See Wednesday’s description.

Wed 6:00 am – Sat 2:00 pm

Soils, Landforms, & Vegetation of Bidwell Park Wed 7:30 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This trip begins in the flood plain of Big Chico Creek and travels back in time across the older deposits of the creek and up onto the Cascade foothills. We will do some free-style birding on our hike back. A$25 - Y$10 Level 3

Wings & Olive Tasting in Corning NEW Wed 7:30 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Explore Olive City Agriculture & Nature Center, a 275-acre nature santuary. Then drive over to Corning Olive Oil Company where we’ll take a tour of the facility, see olives being pressed, and do some tasting of the finished product. A$25 - Y$10 Level 3

Up the Creek with a Pair of Binoculars Wed 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center The Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve (BCCER) is part of the larger Big Chico Creek watershed and home to a great diversity of plants, animals, and over 100 bird species. We will bird the oak woodland/chaparral of the upper canyon, then we’ll head down to the creek. A$27 - Y$10 Level 3

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge & Vicinity NEW Wed 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Here’s a guided trip that offers spectacular opportunities to see the wintering waterfowl along the Pacific Flyway At Colusa & Delevan NWR. See huge numbers of Snow Geese, ducks, and a Black-crowned Night roost site. Stops at other local sites and the Maxwell Cemetery where we may see a wintering Vermilion Flycatcher. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Birding, History, & Wine Tasting in Durham SOLD OUT Wed 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Oxidation Ponds & Indian Fishery SOLD OUT Wed 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Raptor Run NEW

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center January is the best month for raptor viewing in Butte County. Target species include Bald and Golden Eagles, Peregrine and Prairie Falcons, Merlin, Ferruginous and Rough-legged Hawks, and Burrowing Owl. This trip is also offered on Saturday. A$25 - Y$10 Level 2

Sacramento Refuge Fly-Off

Wed 7:00 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center The workshop focuses on the basics of bird and other wildlife photography from its history and advances in equipment. This session will be followed with a field trip to nearby wetlands. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Marathon Big Day Birding in Plumas County SOLD OUT

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Look for geese, swans, and cranes on our way to the Sacramento NWR. Then on to the refuge to witness thousands of birds leave the refuge in their spectacular ‘fly-off’. This trip is also offered on Friday with a different leader. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Eagle Roost Safari SOLD OUT Meet at (Directions will be provided)

J A N U A R Y, 2018

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This is a “behind the gates” opportunity to visit the historic Rancho Llano Seco.

We’ll hear about the ranch’s rich natural and cultural histories, and see hundreds of wintering ducks, geese, and Sandhill Cranes! A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Bat Safari

Thu 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This outing offers a unique up-close and personal glimpse into the world of bats.

We will utilize mist nets to capture bats, also acoustic equipment to record and identify bats. Bring headlamps (preferred) or flashlights, chairs, warm clothes.

A$22 - Y$8 Level 2

Winter Northern Saw-whet Owl Banding SOLD OUT

Thu 4:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

PRESENTATIONS/WORKSHOPS

Upper Bidwell Park’s Yahi Trail

“Heron in Flight” Painting Class NEW

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Hike 4 miles of the Yahi Trail. This stretch of rich riparian habitat provides excellent viewing of oak woodland plants and animal species, and it has some of the best winter birding in Bidwell Park. This trip is also offered on Sunday morning.

A$25 - Y$10 Level 3

Meet at Studio 561, 561 E Lindo Ave, Chico Join us for an introductory level painting experience at The Studio 561 as we paint the graceful “Heron in Flight.” All materials provided for this step-by-step, family-friendly painting class. All ages welcome. $45

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Thu 7:30 am - 12:00 pm

Winter Raptors with Jon L. Dunn SOLD OUT Thu 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Divide Ranch (includes lunch) Thu 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Visit areas of the Divide Ranch in Glenn Co. Then enjoy lunch at the ranch house with Divide Ranch’s 100% Grass-Fed Beef . An extra pair of waterproof boots is a must due to a creek crossing.A$38 - Y$18 Level 3

Gray Lodge Wildlife Area SOLD OUT Sun 8:15 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Bidwell Park Bird Walk

Thu 8:30 am - 11:00 am

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Enjoy a bird walk through Bidwell Park with the author of Birds of Bidwell Park.

Learn amazing facts about the birds of the park and how to identify them. It is excellent birding for both the beginner and expert. This trip is also offered on Friday. A$14 - Y$8 Level 2

Foothill Bird Trek NEW

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Lime Saddle trail, historic Miocene Flume, and Native American grinding rocks site are part of this birding adventure in the foothills above Chico. We will be traversing both forest and riparian areas with likely sightings of towhees, woodpeckers, finches, sparrows, titmice, and raptors. A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Delevan NWR & Sacramento Refuge Fly-Off NEW Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Delevan NWR is one of 15 Wildlife Refuge units along the Interstate 5 corridor and home to large numbers of Pacific Flyway’s wintering waterfowl and host to hundreds of shorebirds, herons, egrets and raptors. At dusk witness thousands of birds in their spectacular “fly-off” at the Sac Refuge. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Eagle Roost Safari SOLD OUT

Thu 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Wed 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Thu 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thu 12:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Wed 12:30 pm – 7:00 pm

SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL

Bird Photography at Rancho Esquon

Thu 8:30 am - 12:30 pm

Wed 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm

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Wed 6:00 am – Sat 2:00 pm

Historic Rancho Llano Seco: Wildlife & Habitat Conservation

Meet at (Directions will be provided)

Thu 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Friday, January 26 FIELD TRIPS

River Partners 4-day Birding Competition NEW Wed 6:00 am – Sat 2:00 pm

Meet at River Partners Riparian Restoration Sites See Wednesday’s description.

Sutter Buttes Hike: Dean Ranch with Jon L. Dunn SOLD OUT Fri 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at 150 Ford Ave., Gridley

Yana Trail SOLD OUT

Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center The Yana trail crosses ponds, riparian zones, rolling blue oak savannah, and lava rock canyons. Expect an abundance of Lewis’s Woodpeckers, White-breasted Nuthatches, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, and a variety of sparrows. Also see offers stunning views of the Sacramento River and Mt. Lassen. A$30 - Y$10 Level 3

Rancho Esquon

Fri 8:15 am - 12:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Visit Rancho Esquon where Snow Geese, Greater White-fronted Geese, and Sandhill Cranes along with Bald Eagles are occasionally spotted perched along the road. Also see a spectacular view of the surrounding wetlands with a high concentration of ducks. This trip is also offered on Sunday. A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Bidwell Park Bird Walk

Marathon Big Day Birding in Butte County SOLD OUT

Fri 8:30am - 11:00 am

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge

Fri 7:00 am - 6:30 pm

Wilbur Road & the Afterbay NEW Fri 7:30 am - 1:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Wilbur Road offers a great variety of birding habitats, which makes it the ideal place for winter birding. Then visit Thermalito Afterbay shoreline, grasslands and access points. The trip ends in the wide-open range land that is home to a wide variety of raptors. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Red Bluff Recreation Area Fri 7:30 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center at 7:30 am Meet at Sacramento River Discovery Center at 8:30 am The Sacramento River Discovery Center, located near the river in the Red Bluff Recreation Area, will be the take-off point for this exciting birding adventure.

Over 120 different species of birds have been sighted in this area throughout the year. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Lake Oroville Pontoon Boat Tour SOLD OUT Fri 7:45 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Rancho Llano Seco: Farms, Water, & Wildlife Fri 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center See the ranch water delivery system that has been in use for over 100 years.

Then walk along the valley oak woodlands, savannas, and freshwater marshes which will provide ample opportunity to see wintering waterfowl, Sandhill Cranes and other migratory birds. A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Trip also offered on Thursday. (See Thursday’s description.) A$14 - Y$8 Level 2

Fri 8:30 am - 2:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Wildlife, wintering waterfowl, and nature photography are exceptional at Colusa NWR. Spectacular flights of Snow and Ross’s Geese along with thousands of Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Mallard, Gadwall, and Northern Shovelers can be seen in the marshes. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Dye Creek Preserve

Fri 8:45 am - 2:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Visit the rugged Dye Creek Preserve. Expect to see birds common to oak woodlands such as the Lewis’s Woodpecker, Acorn Woodpecker, Oak Titmouse, California Quail,Ferruginous Hawk, Bald Eagle, and Golden Eagle. A$27 Level 3

Richvale Birds & Rice Growers Fri 9:00 am - 12:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Richvale is not only rich in rice farming history but also rich in wintering waterfowl on the flooded rice fields. Come learn how the production of rice benefits not only people but also 235 species of wildlife. A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Birds & Wine with Purple Line

Fri 9:00 am - 1:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Purple Line Urban Winery will be your last stop on this amazing birding adventure.

See the swans, geese, and raptors along Cottonwood Road, hike the Feather River Trail to view diving ducks, herons, and egrets and then stop for wine tasting. A$35 Level 2

TRIPS & WORKSHOPS Sandhill Cranes & Winter Raptors SOLD OUT

This trip is most appropriate for intermediate/ advanced birders. A$30 Y$10 Level 4

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Raptor ID, Trapping, & Banding SOLD OUT

Fri 9:30 am - 2:00 pm

Sacramento Refuge Fly-Off

Sat 7:00 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Trip also offered on Wednesday. (See Wednesday’s description.) A$27 Y$10 Level 2

Refuge to Refuge: Snow Geese Galore!

Fri 12:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Raptor Run thru Butte County SOLD OUT Fri 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Intermediate Bird Photography Workshop/ Field Trip NEW/SOLD OUT Fri 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Eagle Roost Safari SOLD OUT Fri 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Meet at (Directions will be provided)

Family Owl Prowl

Fri 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Meet at Chico Creek Nature Center This family-oriented field trip offers a unique glimpse into the amazing nocturnal world of owls. The Prowl, a leisurely hike into Bidwell Park, will start and end at the Chico Creek Nature Center. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight. A$12 - Y$5 Level 1

PRESENTATIONS/WORKSHOPS Basic Nature & Wildlife Photography Workshop Fri 8:30 am - 11:00 am

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This workshop is an introduction to nature and wildlife photography, particularly bird photography. Topics will include exposure, lighting, composition, and the ethics of nature photography. A$18 - Y$8

Bird Carving Seminar for Beginners Fri 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Join master carvers from the Pacific Flyway Decoy Association for a five hour carving seminar of a Mourning Dove. All materials, including a study guide and knives, will be provided. Must be fifteen years or older. $35

“Owl” Painting Class NEW Fri 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Meet at Studio 561, 561 E Lindo Ave, Chico Painting an “Owl” with mixed media and acrylic paint at The Studio 561. This is a fun beginner level painting with step-by-step instruction. All materials provided for this family-friendly painting class. All ages welcome. $45

Saturday, January 27 FIELD TRIPS

River Partners 4-day Birding Competition NEW Wed 6:00 am – Sat 2:00 pm

Meet at River Partners Riparian Restoration Sites See Wednesday’s description.

Valley Wetlands & Wintering Waterbirds: For the Serious Birder Sat 6:30 am - 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Stops will include the Llano Seco Unit, Sacramento NWR, Thermalito Afterbay, Feather River and Cottonwood Rd. Along with Snow Geese, we hope to see a variety of waterfowl, raptors, and many other wetland species.

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Sat 7:00 am - 5:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Visit two premier Sacramento Valley wildlife refuges, Sacramento NWR, and Gray Lodge Wildlife Area. See huge flocks of Snow Geese and waterfowl along with cranes, ibis, and a variety of raptors A$30 - Y$10 Level 2

FREE EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Bird the Shores of Black Butte Lake

Saturday & Sunday, Jan. 27–28

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Explore the backwaters and woodlands this lake has to offer. See grebes, Belted Kingfisher, Bonaparte’s Gulls, and goldeneyes. Along the roads see Wild Turkeys, Mountain Bluebirds, Red-tailed Hawks, Lewis’s Woodpeckers, Eagles. A$27 - Y$10 Level 3

The Maze of Maps

Sat 7:30 am - 3:00 pm

Sutter Buttes Hike: State Park’s Peace Valley Sat 7:45 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Step back in time as you learn about Peace Valley’s natural and cultural history.

Visit a Native American site used for grinding acorns. This hike involves some moderate uphill hiking. No early departures on this trip. A$45 - Y$30 Level 3

Sutter Buttes Hike: State Park’s Peace Valley & “House Hill” Sat 7:45 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Our journey will include a climb to the top of “House Hill” where fantastic views of the valley and the surrounding buttes can be found. This is a strenuous hike over some steep terrain. No early departures on this trip.

A$45 - Y$30 Level 4

Tundra Swan Viewing: District 10 (includes lunch)

Sat 8:00 am - 1:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center A trip to Marysville’s District 10 is where Tundra Swans can be seen. Swan viewing will be mainly from the sides of backcountry roads. Then stop at the home of the Mathews for lunch and a presentation on the benefits of rice farming for wildlife. A$32 - Y$12 Level 1

Lassen Volcanic National Park Snowshoe Hike NEW Sat 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Learn about the wildlife and birds at Lassen VNP in winter. Explore the park’s beautiful Red Fir forest on snowshoes. Participants must be 8 years or older and able to withstand moderate physical exertion at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Snowshoes will be provided. A$27 - Y$10 Level 4

Sutter Buttes Hike: Dean Ranch Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at 150 Ford Ave., Gridley Take a 3-mile hike around the 100-year-old Dean Cattle Ranch and see Mountain Bluebird, Varied Thrush, Golden Eagle, and Ferruginous Hawk, along with the usual winter sparrows. A$45 - Y$30 Level 3

Birds & Trees of the Chico Seed Orchard Sat 8:15 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Join us for a walk through the Chico Seed Orchard. Here you will find a

FIELD TRIPS continued on page 6

FIELD TRIPS KEY Level 1= Mostly birding by car and/or easy walking Level 2= Walking, could involve distance but largely flat Level 3= More vigorous hiking, some elevation gain/loss Level 4= A true adventure trip, lots of driving and hiking A= Adult Y= Youth = Wheelchair accessible

Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Sun 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center This year we will feature an eclectic assortment of interesting maps from around the North Valley and beyond. Get the bird’s eye view of our local landscape features. Stroll through maps in the CMFC hallway and let your curiosity take you on a tour.

Chico Masonic Family Center 1110 W. East Ave., Chico Indian Fishery W. Sacramento & River Rds., Chico

SATURDAY ONLY

SUNDAY ONLY

Slow the Flow

California State Parks Presents: Indian Fishery Junior Ranger Program

Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Sun 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Displays by State, Federal, and Non-profit organizations. Plus vendors selling everything from binoculars to bird books.

Sat. 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Want to learn how to prevent water pollution?

Rainwater that doesn’t soak into the ground flows directly into local creeks through storm drains. This stormwater runoff contains pollutants such as motor oil, pesticides, and trash. In fact, stormwater runoff from roads, sidewalks, and landscaping is the single greatest source of water pollution. We will discuss water-wise landscaping practices that prevent water pollution, including rain gardens, bioswales, pervious pavers, and use of native plants. Then we’ll take a field trip to see a recently constructed stormwater treatment project.

Federal Junior Duck Stamp Display

Live Raptor Experience

Exhibits & Vendors Galore

Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Sun 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center All 100 California winners from nearly 2,000 entries will be on display. Don’t forget to see the Chico winners.

Meet Smokey Bear and the Blue Goose Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Sun 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Smokey the Bear and the National Wildlife Refuge’s Blue Goose will be visiting at various times courtesy of the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge. Also be sure to visit the US Fish & Wildlife Service fire safety exhibit booth.

Junior Naturalist Activities

Sat 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Sun 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Along with the Live Raptor Presentation, Meet Smokey Bear and Blue Goose, Junior Duck Stamp Display, children may earn a Junior Naturalist Certificate by participating in a few activities designed just for children. There will be nature crafts, opportunities to build bird feeders, make a bird call and much, much more!

Wolves in California: The Long Journey Home

Sat. 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm Sun 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center California is excited to celebrate the beginning of what could be one of our state’s most inspiring conservation stories: the return of the gray wolf. As a keystone predator, wolves provide a critical balance to the ecosystem in which they belong. No other animal in history has so captured the imagination of people than the wolf! Come learn about the true nature of this dynamic predator and what the return of this iconic species means to our golden state.

Sat. 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, and 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Come see the Center for Reconnecting with Nature’s display of raptors and falcons. Live birds of prey will be present and the Center will be sharing about their mission, which focuses on reconnecting both youth and adults with nature. The exhibit of live raptors will be open from 10am to noon and 1pm to 3pm.

All Those White Geese! Snow Goose Workshop

Sat. 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Snow Geese, Ross’s Geese, and Blue Morphs - it can be overwhelmingly white in the sky! Come learn how to tell the difference between all these white geese.

Through exquisite pictures and lively narration, you can become much more knowledgeable about our Mascot of the Festival.

Our Magnetic Sun & Solar Viewing

Sun. 10:00 am - 11:00 am Location: Meet at Indian Fishery Join Ranger Matthew Stalter for an exciting adventure on a short interpretive hike through the oak woodlands and riparian habitat at Indian Fishery.

Participants will explore the relationship between the meandering river system and the oxbow lake located at the park unit. This is a kid-friendly hike, and families are encouraged to attend. The trail is approximately 1 mile long. Meet at Indian Fishery parking lot, West Sacramento Road and River Road.

Limit 15 participants. To register, please call Ranger Matt Stalter at the ranger office (530) 342-5185.

All About Bats!

Sun. 11:00am - 12:30pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center They are one of the most beneficial, yet most misunderstood animals in the world. Learn more about the habits, habitats, and species of bats that reside within the unique ecosystems of California’s valleys and forests.

Optics Demo

Sun 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Learn the basics about Binoculars and Spotting Scopes for bird watching! What do the numbers mean? Isn’t higher power always better? This will be a “show and tell” discussion about the differences in size, quality, and construction of optics so that you can make a good choice for your needs and budget. Sample optics will be available from numerous manufacturers to illustrate. Marilyn Rose from Out of this World Optics will be the presenter.

Raptor Force Assembly

Sat. 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Birds use the sun’s polarized light as one of their tools to enable them to navigate during migration.

We’ll begin with a talk about our sun, sunspots, solar prominence, flares, and coronal mass ejections. Then we’ll explore light using simple diffraction gratings.

Finally, skies permitting, we’ll go outside and do some solar viewing using a safe, dedicated solar telescope.

Sun. 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center West Coast Falconry is coming to the Snow Goose Festival! Falconers have played a pivotal role in raptor conservation, captive breeding techniques, and educating the public on seeing the world through the eyes of nature’s elite predators. Get an up-close look at hawks, falcons, owls, and a precocious vulture.

Bring your cameras and questions – we’ll be flying several birds during the presentation.

Wetlands’ Wildlife: The Sacramento Valley

Sun. 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Location: Chico Masonic Family Center Filmed in Gray Lodge Wildlife Refuge, The Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, The Llano Seco Wildlife Refuge, and the wetlands and rice fields in Butte and Colusa in California, this beautiful video gives viewers a close-up look at many of the migratory birds that come from as far away as Siberia and the Arctic Circle to make their homes in the Sacramento Valley’s wetlands each winter.

J A N U A RY, 2018

SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL

5

Wings & Wine Tasting in Vina SOLD OUT

“Gathering of Wings”

Sat 8:30 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Winter Birding in the Foothills NEW Sat 8:45 am - 2:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Bird the hotspots in one of the least explored areas in our region! You’ll hike along the historic Miocene Flume and around Lake Oroville’s Parish Cove. Then we’ll end the day at Kunkle Reservoir. An assortment of birds and wildlife will fill your day. A$27 - Y$10 Level 3

2018 Snow Goose Festival Wildlife Art Exhibit

Jan. 26– Feb. 2, 2018 • Downtown Chico 325 Main Street (Chico Children’s Museum) Wildlife Art Exhibit

Feast your eyes on wonderful art by artists whose subjects include wildlife and habitat along the Pacific Flyway.

This impressive week-long exhibit will feature the work of many artists in a variety of media, including sculpture, clay, oils, fiber arts, watercolor, acrylics, mixed media, glass, and photography.

SGF Wildlife Art Reception Friday, Jan. 26, 5:00pm - 8:00pm • FREE to the public Public parking lot at W 2nd & Wall Streets You are invited to attend this Art Reception, view the inspiring collection of artwork, enjoy refreshments, live music, splendid conversations, and a no-host bar. Bring a friend and meet the artists, along with fellow festival participants, presenters, and field trip leaders. This is a truly special evening you won’t want to miss! nature trail that runs next to the creek. With the large variety of tree species, the creek and its neighboring open space, many species of birds flock to the center. A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Vina Plains to Pine Creek & the River Sat 8:15 am - 12:15 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Visit The Nature Conservancy’s Vina Plains Preserve and observe winter plants and animals of unique vernal pool ecosystems. Next stop is at the Pine Creek Unit to see a riparian habitat restoration project which is home to migratory songbirds, and endangered species. A$22 - Y$10 Level 3

Llano Seco Viewing Platform with Jon L. Dunn SOLD OUT Sat 8:30 am - 12:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center The Llano Seco Platform is an ideal spot for viewing a large number of geese and ducks in one location! Other species include Sandhill Cranes, raptors, herons, and egrets. This is definitely a birding hot spot and a good trip for the beginning birder. This trip is also offered on Sunday.

A$30 – Y$20 Level 2

Explore the Wild Side of Butte Creek NEW Sat 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center The riparian woodland and areas of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve are biological hot-spots! We will explore this dynamic 93-acre preserve, and likely witness a variety of wildlife and birds. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Family Hike at Verbena Fields Sat 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Verbena Fields is a 21-acre open space along Lindo Channel where native plants and lots of birds and animals are making a comeback. Join us for a lighthearted, activity-filled exploration of this urban gem. A$12 - Y$5 Level 2

Oxidation Ponds & Indian Fishery SOLD OUT Sat 11:30 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Raptor Run SOLD OUT

BANQUET & SILENT AUCTION

BANQUET

Saturday, January 27, 2018 • 5:30 pm – 10:00pm

Bell Memorial Union Auditorium, CSU, Chico Corner of 2nd Street and Chestnut Street, Chico COST: $40 Adult, $30 Youth (17 years and younger) and students with ID Beer & Wine (No Host)

Don’t miss the biggest event of the Snow Goose Festival, our “Gathering of Wings” Banquet. This treasured evening is a mix of great food, great company and great entertainment and is anticipated by many as the one chance per year they have to visit and catch up with fellow birders and friends in the community.

Join field trip leaders, workshop presenters and all our hard-working committee members and volunteers in celebrating this special evening.

Keynote Speaker: Jon L. Dunn, Chief Consultant and author of all seven editions of the National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America and a birding tour leader for over 30 years, Jon will share his passion of birds and exceptional knowledge of the challenges of identifying the Pacific Flyway’s waterfowl.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS:

Sat 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center

Tundra Swan Viewing: District 10 Sat 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center A trip to Marysville’s District 10 is where Tundra Swans can be seen. The group will scout for a wide variety of water birds, from ducks, egrets and ibis to less seen Bald Eagle and Peregrine Falcon. This area is one of the premier swan viewing sites in California. A$22 - Y$10 Level 1

Youth Nature Photography Field Trip Sat 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center We’ll travel to the Llano Seco Viewing Platform to photograph. This trip is for youths between 9 and 17 years of age. We’ll discuss different types of light, how to compose good photographs, and practice photographing birds and other subjects. You will need to bring your own camera. Participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no charge for the adult.

Y$10 Level 2

Lundberg Family Farms NEW Sat 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Tour the farm famous for its specialty rice products and for attracting wildlife to its organic fields. Then we’ll visit the Headquarters and Visitors Center, where we will learn about producing consumer rice products, see the research greenhouse, and visit the store stocked full of Lundberg goodies! A$22 - Y$10 Level 1

Eagle Roost Safari SOLD OUT Sat 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Meet at (Directions will be provided)

The Beauty & the Identification Challenges of the Central Valley’s Waterfowl.

Few locations in North America have greater concentrations of waterfowl than the Central Valley. Indeed, ornithologically, the Central Valley is best known for its concentrations of ducks and geese. The males of course are striking and easy to identify, but females

PRESENTATIONS/WORKSHOPS

Alaska, Land of Many Dreams NEW

Less Lawn, More Wildlife: Gardens as Habitat

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Go beyond the cruise experience and get a taste of the adventures that are possible in Alaska. Highlights include Homer, Kachemak Bay, Katmai, Seward, Denali, Haines, Hyder, Glacier Bay and the bear refuges. Also discuss how to plan your trip, getting there, traveling around the state, and how to best spend your time and money. A$10 - Y$5

Sat 9:00 am - 10:30 am

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center What we do in our gardens can make a difference in supporting populations of birds and insects. In this workshop John will discuss the nuts and bolts of converting a lawn into a wildlife friendly garden for pollinators and birds.

A$10 - Y$5

January 26 - February 2 215 Main Street th

nd

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 12 noon-5 pm

Opening Reception: FRIDAY JANUARY 28TH 5-8PM 325 MAIN STREET, CHICO 6

SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL J A N U A R Y, 2018

Sat 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Soundscapes of California

The Surprising Benefits of Snag Forests: Nature’s Nurseries NEW

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center We will enjoy a selection of surround-sound recordings from California’s parks and wildlife preserves. Ear training exercises will be given. Participants may wish to take the field trip that compliments this workshop, Beginning Birding

by Ear on Sunday at 7:45 am. A$10 - Y$5

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Discover more about why snag forests are among the most valuable, rare and threatened bird habitats in America, how to protect snag forests, and how to encourage and manage snags for wildlife benefits in your own landscape. This presentation will include a film. A$10 - Y$5

Sat 9:00 am - 10:30 am

Ninth Avenue Gallery Presents the

Snow Goose Festival Wildlife Art Exhibit

and eclipse birds (summer and early fall) represent much tougher identification challenges.

We will admire the beauty of the breeding plumaged males, but also take time to review some of the key identification features of the more cryptically colored females and review the more difficult groups like female teal, wigeon, and scaup.

We will also discuss the very distinctive elgasi subspecies (the “Tule Goose”) of the Greater Whitefronted Goose, the entire population (about 10,000) breeds in Alaska between the Alaska Range and Cook Inlet and winters entirely in the northern Sacramento Valley. It probably should be recognized as a separate species.”

Jon L. Dunn will be available for book signings after his keynote address.

SILENT AUCTION begins at 5:30 pm The vibrant Silent Auction tables will accompany us while we dine at the BMU and will include a variety of exquisite items including works of art, wine, and services. Your financial participation directly affects our ability to ensure that the Snow Goose Festival remains the North State’s premier birding event, so enjoy the evening bidding for an event or item that you love.

You won’t be disappointed!!

Sat 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

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Clark Road Paradise 872-0812

Celebrating Cranes NEW

Sutter Buttes Hike: Summit Ascent

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Want to know all about the tallest bird in California? It’s the Sandhill Crane, which both breeds and over-winters here. We will explore this ancient and elegant bird’s life and culture. A$10 - Y$5

Meet at 150 Ford Ave., Gridley This hike adds an additional half-mile 1000 ft. elevation gain. The last halfmile is quite strenuous. A$45 - Y$30 Level 4

Sat 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

The Photography of Ron & Nancy Sanford Sat 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This year Ron & Nancy want to show and tell their visual experiences from 1978 thru 2017 via continually changing their niche. See some of their extraordinary photographs taken over the last four decades.

A$10 - Y$5

The History & Mystery of the Sutter Buttes Sat 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Here’s an opportunity for glimpses into the mysterious Sutter Buttes. Travel through the Buttes without ever leaving your chair as you enjoy this fascinating slide presentation on the many facets and wonders of the remarkable landscape that makes up the Sutter Buttes, which will include a historical perspective. A$10 - Y$5

The Life of the Rough-legged Hawk Sat 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Jeff will discuss the biology, ecology, status, conservation, and annual movements of Rough-legged hawks. Also the life of these amazing hawks will be discussed. A$10 - Y$5

Sunday, January 28 FiELd TRiPS

Raptor id, Trapping, & Banding SOLd OUT Sun 7:00 am - 12:00 pm

Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Marathon Big day Birding in Colusa County Sun 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Gray Lodge & Cordi Winery Sun 8:15 am - 4:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Gray Lodge WA is one of the premier winter birding areas in Northern Sacramento Valley. Then we’ll take a short drive to Cordi Winery, nestled at the base of the Sutter Buttes, for some wine tasting and R & R after your big day of birding. A$35 Level 2

Llano Seco Viewing Platform Sun 8:30 am - 12:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Trip also offered on Saturday. (See Saturday’s description.) A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Upper Bidwell Park’s Yahi Trail Sun 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This trip is also offered on Thursday morning. (See Thursday’s description) A$25 - Y$10 Level 3

Rancho Esquon

Sun 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Trip also offered on Friday (see Friday’s trip description). A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Oxidation Ponds & indian Fishery Sun 9:00 am - 1:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This trip is also offered on Wednesday afternoon and Saturday. (See Wednesday’s description.) A$25 - Y$10 Level 2

Coast Range Foothills via Newville Road SOLd OUT

Wing-it to the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center See interesting geology, an old cemetery, and amazing views when we explore the Newville area in the Coast Range Foothills. We will also take a short hike in the chaparral foothills to look for Mountain Quail and California Thrasher.

A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center The “winging-it” part of this trip is where the fun starts! We’ll veer off the beaten path as we bird along our way. Then off to a leisurely adventure around the auto tour loop to see thousands of birds. A$27 - Y$10 Level 2

Beginning Birding by Ear Sun 7:45 am - 11:00 am

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Listen to and learn some audio clues for identifying bird songs and calls in the field. Recording equipment in the Soundscapes workshop will be along on this trip. Participants may wish to take the Soundscapes Workshop on Sat. at 9am.

A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Birds, River & Habitat Restoration NEW Sun 7:45 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This a rare opportunity to journey into multiple river restoration sites on over 2,000 acres along the Sacramento River in Glenn County. We will hike the properties, enjoy the river, and see some great birds. A$22 - Y$10 Level 2

Birds & Trees of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve Sun 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Explore the native trees, shrubs, and birds of Butte Creek. This is a 3-4 mile intermediate hike along the creek. See Red-breasted Sapsucker, Wood Ducks, goldeneye, Great Horned Owl, and warblers. Otters and beavers may also be seen. A$22 - Y$10 Level 3

Sutter Buttes Hike: Mid-Mountain Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Meet at 150 Ford Ave., Gridley On this 5-mile hike into the Sutter Buttes, visit locations revealing the Buttes’ geologic formation, Native American presence, old pioneer home sites, and ecology typical of California’s past. A$45 - Y$30 Level 3

Perfect For Nature Viewing!

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This is a fast-paced, non-stop, wide-ranging adventure throughout Colusa County. Expect to see a wide variety of waterfowl including swans, geese, ducks, wading birds, shorebirds, and rails. Expect to see 60-80 or more species. A$35 - Y$20 Level 4

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center This trip is also offered on Saturday. (See Saturday’s description.)

Sun 7:30 am - 3:00 pm

8x42 Nikon Monarch 7 Binocular

Sun 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

• Ideal for Birdwatching • Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) Glass for Brighter, Clearer Viewing • 100% Waterproof & Fogproof • Excellent for Eyeglass Wearers • Fully Multicoated Lenses for Clarity • Includes Nikon’s “No Fault” Warranty Open Everyday on Main Street, Mendocino | See us at the Snow Goose Festival!

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Eagle Roost Safari SOLd OUT Sun 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Meet at (Directions will be provided)

PRESENTATiONS/WORkSHOPS The Great Gray Owl

Sun 9:00 am - 10:30 am

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Great Gray Owls are one of the most mysterious and sought-after bird residents of California, Oregon, and Washington. Despite relatively high breeding concentrations in the Wallowa Mountains and southern Cascades of Oregon, Great Grays are of conservation concern to wildlife managers. A$10 - Y$5

Chico Backyard Birds

Sun 10:00 am - 11:30 am

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center I never saw a bird like that in my backyard before, is it rare? What happened to that nice singer that spent most of the spring in my yard? Join Mac, who will give you tips on identifying some of Northern California’s birds that visit your backyard and become a better backyard “birder.” A$10 - Y$5

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21 Locations to Serve You!

Freeway Birding: San Francisco to Seattle

visit riebes.com

Sun 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center Harry Fuller will discuss his recently released book, Freeway Birding, aimed at the traveling birder. The book describes dozens of locations within 20 minutes’ drive of the major north south freeways in the region, and includes over 100 useful maps. Presentation will be followed by book signing. A$10 - Y$5

Locally owned and operated since 1957.

NEW LOCATION!

J A N U A RY, 2018

Snow GooSe FeStival

7

Working together for Our Environment N

orthern California’s wetlands are a precious, yet scarce, resource. And while more than 95 percent of our wetlands have been lost, millions of waterfowl still make their home in the Central Valley. Ducks Unlimited works hand-in-hand with California rice growers to enhance and preserve habitat, keep rice farming viable and still meet waterfowl and human needs.

Ducks Unlimited is continually developing waterfowl-friendly land management practices and California’s Ricelands not only provide virtually all of America’s sushi rice, they contribute billions of dollars to our economy each year. As people benefit, so do the ducks – California rice fields provide 60 percent of the food needed by wintering waterfowl, while DU’s on-the-ground conservation work provides wetlands habitat ducks need to flourish here in the Valley.

Find out how you can partner with Ducks Unlimited and the California Rice Commission.

Visit ducks.org and calrice.org.