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: Birds & Trees of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve
$22 Adult; $10 Youth
Sunday, Jan 31, 2016 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center (Map)
More vigorous hiking, some elevation gain/loss
Description
We will explore the native trees, shrubs, and birds of Butte Creek. Butte Creek Canyon is stunning with its Tuscan Volcanic Formations. This is a 3-4 mile intermediate hike along the creek (and over some logs) down to the pond. Last year we enjoyed Red-breasted Sapsucker, Wood Ducks, goldeneye, Great Horned Owl, and assorted warblers. We also had many goose and duck fly-overs. Otters and beavers may also be seen. Wear sturdy shoes/boots and bring water, and snacks.
Field Trip Leaders
Andy Tomaselli
Andy Tomaselli is an avid outdoor enthusiast, having spent his young adult life working and living in Yosemite National Park where he first became curious about natural history. He is a self-taught naturalist, learning most of the flora and fauna of California from field guides. Andy enjoys fly fishing, backcountry skiing and has spent many years helping with local Christmas Bird Counts. Andy refers to himself as a "smart alecky laymen" and likes to call his self-taught natural history a "burden of knowledge" that he is more than happy to unload on anyone who asks. He has resided in Chico for over 25 years and has explored the Northstate extensively; especially obscure out of the way locations. When not birding or botanizing with his lovely wife, he likes to pursue his creative side playing and singing American standards on the ukulele.
Andy Tomaselli's Events
- Thermalito Afterbay & Surrounding Grasslands (1/29/2016)
- Birds & Trees of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve (1/31/2016)
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)
Miguette Sansegundo
Miguette Sansegundo is a life long professional gardener who moved to Chico ten years ago from Long Island, NY. The change in climate and vegetation type has been a fascination for her. Working first at the local native plant nursery to get her bearings and later exploring the area on her own, she has come to know the native flora in the area as well as that of her former seaside home. She is particularly happy to be birding in such a choice and special location.
Miguette Sansegundo's Events
- Birds & Trees of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve (1/31/2016)