Field Trip Leader Bios
Read all the biographies here.
A special note about Field Trips
Please arrive at the location indicated 20 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. 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 damage their habitats (breaking branches, trampling vegetation). Turn off cell phones or other electronic devices. If you are taking children with you, explain to them proper etiquette before the trip. Always behave in a manner that will enhance the image of the birding communities in the eyes of the public.
- 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.
- No dogs or pets allowed on any Snow Goose Festival event, workshop, or program. Please leave Fido with friends or family and not in the car during a field trip.
Field Trip: Plants & Birds of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve - Sold Out!
$35 Adult; $10 Youth
Sunday, Jan 25, 2026 8:15 am - 12:15 pm
Meet at Patrick Ranch - Pat's Barn (Map)
More vigorous hiking, some elevation gain/loss
Description
The Mechoopda Tribe's Butte Creek Ecological Preserve is a 93 acre creekside habitat that hosts the largest wild run of the threatened Central Valley Spring Run Chinook Salmon and many other animals. On this trip we will explore the native trees, shrubs, and birds of this stunning setting in Butte Creek Canyon's Tuscan Volcanic Formations. This is a 2 to 3-mile intermediate hike along the creek down to the pond. 170 species of birds have been documented here. Possible sightings include Phainopepla, Red-breasted Sapsucker, Wood Duck, Bald Eagle, and assorted creekside species. Otters and beavers also frequent the area. The Camp Fire burned through the BCEP in 2018, and this fire adapted landscape has seen vigorous regrowth since. A recent study comparing pre and post fire bird populations found more birds post fire. Wear sturdy shoes/boots and bring snacks, water, and binoculars.
Field Trip Leaders
Jon Aull
Jon Aull is the Outdoor Education Coordinator for California State University, Chico's Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve. He has been a naturalist around Chico since the turn of the millenium, designing and implementing environmental education programs for all ages. He received a master's degree from CSUC in Parks and Natural Resources. Among his accomplishments are curation of and contribution to temporary and permanent science museum exhibits, authoring a local guide to wildflowers, and participation in citizen science projects involving birds, butterflies, and plants.
Jon Aull's Events
- Up the Creek with a Pair of Binoculars (1/22/2026)
- Paddle the Thermalito Afterbay (1/24/2026)
- Plants & Birds of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve (1/25/2026)
Anton Dresler
Anton Dresler grew up exploring Bidwell Park and the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve from the time before he could walk. He has spent most of his observing and learning about the natural world around him, and sharing both his knowledge of and enthusiasm for all the newts, birds and butterflies with those around him. And dad jokes.
Anton Dresler's Events
- Up the Creek with a Pair of Binoculars (1/22/2026)
- Plants & Birds of Butte Creek Ecological Preserve (1/25/2026)