Field Trip: Historic Llano Seco Rancho -- Wildlife & Habitat Conservation with David Wimpfheimer - Sold Out!

$35 Adult; $15 Youth

Thursday, Jan 24, 2019 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center (Map)

Walking, could involve distance but largely flat

Description

This is a "behind the gates" opportunity to visit the historic Llano Seco Rancho where thousands of acres are set aside for wildlife habitat and conservation. Habitats include riparian forests of the Sacramento River and Little Chico Creek, Valley oak woodlands and savannas, native and annual grasslands, vernal pool and freshwater marsh wetlands. These habitats attract wintering waterfowl and Sandhill Cranes, as well as a variety of raptors. We'll hear about the Rancho's rich natural and cultural histories, its wildlife habitats, and wildlife-friendly farming practices. A field trip will wind through a majestic Valley oak woodland, where we will stretch our legs before heading to the marsh to scout-out ducks, geese, Sandhill Cranes, and other wildlife. If the ranch property is inaccessible due to flooding, we will travel to the viewing platform at the Llano Seco Unit to view the waterfowl after hearing about the ranch’s history and current farming practices. Participants will also meet with Joe Silveira, US Fish & Wildlife Service Wildlife Biologist, who manages the wildlife habitat programs at Llano Seco.

Dress warmly, bring a warm beverage, and do bring your binoculars -- we may have a chance to see hundreds of wintering ducks, geese, and Sandhill Cranes! This tour leaves the ranch after dark. (Above photo courtesy of Fare Resources)

Field Trip Leaders

Richard Thieriot

Dick Thieriot is a decendent of John & Abby Parrott who purchased Llano Seco Rancho in the 1860s. He is co-owner of Llano Seco Ranch, where he has implemented diverse riparian, freshwater wetland, ranching and farming conservation practices.

Richard Thieriot's Events

• Historic Llano Seco Rancho -- Wildlife & Habitat Conservation with David Wimpfheimer (1/24/2019)

David Wimpfheimer

David Wimpfheimer is a professional naturalist, guide and biologist who is very passionate about our natural world. He has particular interests in birds and the natural history of the American West. Since earning a degree in Biology from Beloit College, David has studied seabirds and shorebirds in Alaska, raptors in Egypt and a variety of birds in Point Reyes and other regions of California. Since the mid-1980s, David has shared his extensive knowledge about all aspects of the natural world with hundreds of groups. His educational programs have focused on Point Reyes, Alaska, Arizona, Baja California, Yosemite, Death Valley and other parts of California. Although the majority of David’s field trips are geared toward teaching and interpreting birds and bird habitats, he is just as experienced and enthusiastic sharing the full diversity of the natural world. From whale watching expeditions to wildflower hikes, David's seasoned focus and knowledge make every outdoor visit memorable and enjoyable. For over thirty years he has worked for many organizations; the Smithsonian Institution, California Academy of Sciences, Point Reyes Field Institute, Road Scholar, Oceanic Society, Speyside Wildlife, and Wild Wings. Learn more at https://www.calnaturalist.com/.

David Wimpfheimer's Events

• Historic Llano Seco Rancho -- Wildlife & Habitat Conservation with David Wimpfheimer (1/24/2019)
• Birds & Wine with Purple Line with David Wimpfheimer (1/25/2019)
• Vina Plains to Pine Creek & the River with David Wimpfheimer (1/26/2019)
• Rancho Esquon with David Wimpfheimer (1/27/2019)