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: Upper Bidwell Yahi Trail - Sold Out!
$25 Adult; $15 Youth
Sunday, Jan 26, 2025 8:30 am - 11:00 am
Meet at Patrick Ranch - Pat's Barn (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Description
The Yahi Trail in Upper Bidwell Park, a favorite birding trail with locals, offers a surprisingly rich variety of birds all year. The natural habitat along Big Chico Creek offers excellent viewing opportunities of many creek-side and oak woodland bird species, and it has some of the best winter birding in Bidwell Park. We will hike less than 3 miles round-trip along the creek starting at Horseshoe Lake. Sightings include Black Phoebe, Hermit Thrush, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Spotted Towhee, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Acorn Woodpecker, and Bushtit. Many other species are possible, like Phainopepla, and it's always worth a walk down this trail to find out! Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layers, and bring water and snacks.
Field Trip Leaders
Pamela Waldsmith
Pamela is passionate about the natural world, photography, birding, hiking and pickleball. Having been an avid educator for 35 years, she enjoys sharing her interests by leading hikes and birding trips.
Pamela Waldsmith's Events
- "Say Cheese" Photography and Local Creamery (1/24/2025)
- Photography Along the Feather River (1/25/2025)
- Upper Bidwell Yahi Trail (1/26/2025)
Karen L. Smith
Karen L. Smith is a lifelong birder and nature lover. Five years ago, after attending the annual Snow Goose Festival, she moved to Chico from the bay area due to Chico's rich habitat of bird life and its location on the Pacific Flyway. She has traveled to Baja, Belize, Costa Rica, Panama and several locations within the United States to learn about birds. Karen currently co-leads a birding group with Newcomers Club of Chico and taught a Beginner's Birding course with Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU, Chico. She enjoys teaching new birders how to identify and appreciate the birds around them.
Karen L. Smith's Events
- Historic Chico Cemetery - A Birdy Place (1/24/2025)
- Upper Bidwell Yahi Trail (1/26/2025)