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: Eagle Roost Safari - Sold Out!
$125 Adult/Youth
Sunday, Jan 29, 2023 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Meet at (Directions will be emailed to you prior to the Festival.) (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Description
Eagles, Falcons, Burrowing Owls and more, are likely to be seen when you sign up for this spectacular foothill adventure on the 8500 acre private ranch located just minutes from Chico. Nestled in the breathtaking backdrop of the volcanic canyons and buttes of the Sierra/Cascade foothills, you will ride comfortably in the back of an open-aired, safari style vehicle to view and bird your way towards the highlight of the tour, which is viewing the evening arrival of up to 30 Bald Eagles gently gliding overhead as they come to roost after a day of foraging throughout the valley floor. Cozy up by the warm fire as you enjoy catered appetizers and small seasonal plates paired with New Clairvaux wines, or a hot beverage with your group of friends to witness this special eagle event. Hosted by Sacramento River Ecotours and New Clairvaux Vineyards, these trips are limited to one group of up to 10 per day. This daily excursion begins at 2pm and ends shortly after dark.
Field Trip Leader
Henry Lomeli
A lifetime outdoorsman, Henry Lomeli has been a wildlife biologist for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for 26 years, responsible for a big range of land in Northern California and often responding to animal control calls ranging from skunks to mountain lions. Twelve years ago, inspired to share his love of the outdoors with others, Henry founded Sacramento River Eco Tours, which takes curious customers on an educational tour down the Sacramento River and Eagle Creek Ranch Eco Tours, safari-style tours, in the beautiful foothills of Northern California. In 2017 he added Sutter Buttes Eco Tours. Henry has also been practicing his survival skills since he was young that he put to use during his appearance as the survival expert on an episode of the Discovery Channel show "Tethered" in 2014. Henry spends his summer on the river and as an actively engaged member of the California outdoor community!
Henry Lomeli's Events
- Eagle Roost Safari (1/26/2023)
- Eagle Roost Safari (1/27/2023)
- Eagle Roost Safari (1/28/2023)
- Eagle Roost Safari (1/29/2023)