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: Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge
$40 Adult; $20 Youth
Saturday, Jan 24, 2026 8:30 am - 2:30 pm
Meet at Patrick Ranch - Pat's Barn (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Description
Join us on a drive through the backroads of Butte County where we are likely to see Tundra Swans and Sandhill Cranes on our way to the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge. Weather permitting, we will walk the part of the trail that goes through the trees and then take the auto tour loop, stopping along the route whenever we find something interesting (such as a Peregrine Falcon or a Bald Eagle), and at the platform where we can spot many species of diving and dabbling ducks, geese and shorebirds. We'll have walkie-talkies available for the driving portions of this trip. Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers. Bring water, snacks and lunch. Sponsored by Friends of Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge. Carpooling Strongly encouraged.
Field Trip Leaders
Charlie Giannini
Charlie Giannini is a recent graduate of Chico State with a degree in Biology and a minor in Art. Charlie has a love for birds that dates back to elementary school. He is currently working different seasonal field jobs from point counts in the Pacific Northwest to raptor research in Wisconsin. Charlie grew up going on Snow Goose Festival field trips and now is very excited to lead them!
Charlie Giannini's Events
- Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge (1/24/2026)
Grant Heath
Grant Heath is a member of the AltaCal Bird Alliance and graduate of Chico State. During his time at the university, he developed an interest in birding from classes such as waterfowl biology. He looks forward to becoming more involved in field trips and contributing to the birding community in the future.
Grant Heath's Events
- Bidwell Park Bird Walk (1/22/2026)
- Bidwell Park Bird Walk (1/23/2026)
- Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge (1/24/2026)
- Beginning Birding by Ear & Nature Sounds Society (1/25/2026)