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: Capturing the Moment - Wildlife Photography in the Digital Era
$50 Adult; $20 Youth
Friday, Jan 23, 2026 7:30 am - 2:00 pm
Meet at Patrick Ranch - Pat's Barn (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Description
This trip will begin with a short trip to the Llano Seco Viewing Platform on our way out to the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge. There you'll enjoy a presentation in the new visitor center by three skilled local photographers showing their work along with the work of two other local icons, Joan Robins and John Seid. After sharing wildlife photography skills and tips, we will go out to capture photos and memories of the diverse and abundant wildlife that call this refuge their home in the winter. On our way back to Patrick Ranch, we will stop at the Sierra Nevada Creamery on Blue Gum Road to sample some of their tasty cheeses. Sponsored by Friends of Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge. Carpooling strongly encouraged.
Field Trip Leaders
Pamela Waldsmith
Pamela is passionate about the natural world, photography and pickleball. An educator for 35 years, she enjoys sharing her interests by leading hikes and birding trips.
Pamela Waldsmith's Events
- Capturing the Moment - Wildlife Photography in the Digital Era (1/23/2026)
- Photography Along the Sacramento River (1/24/2026)
Suji Roland
Growing up in a very rural part of England, Suji Roland spent his early years wandering the fields, woods and hills. As far back as he can remember, birds and animals were part of his life. When he discovered that his bike could take him just about anywhere, he wanted to capture the beauty of the intimate English landscape and so photography became part of his life. With the advent of digital camera technology, wildlife photography has become much more accessible, and he has strived to capture his love of nature through this medium. Living here in Northern California, capturing everyday moments of natural wonder has become his abiding passion - and he is always ready to help others achieve their photographic goals.
Suji Roland's Events
Marc Hallet
Marc has been interested in wildlife since childhood in Belgium and the Congo. He started photographing wildlife during his years at Humbolt State University where he earned a degree in Wildlife Management. He continued taking photograph of various subjects during his 38-year career working with the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. After retiring and moving to Chico in 2011, he began focusing more on wildlife photography, taking advantage of the great photo opportunities the area provides.
Marc Hallet's Events