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: Beginning Birding by Ear & Nature Sounds Society - Sold Out!
$30 Adult; $15 Youth
Sunday, Jan 26, 2025 7:30 am - 11:00 am
Meet at Patrick Ranch - Pat's Barn (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Description
The skill of identifying birds by their vocalizations adds a wonderful new level of enjoyment to any outdoor outing. Many experienced birders find most of their birds by sound alone! Join us for a morning of listening to and learning some audio clues for identifying bird songs and calls in the field at the Pine Creek Unit of the Sacramento River Refuge Complex. Nature Sounds Society is hosting a free workshop on Saturday and will bring listening and recording equipment on this trip.
Field Trip Leaders
Nature Sounds Society
The Nature Sounds Society is a world-wide organization whose principal purpose is to encourage the preservation, appreciation and creative use of natural sounds. The Society promotes education in the technological, scientific and aesthetic aspects of nature sounds through its programs and a diverse network of contacts. People concerned with natural sound and natural quiet include biologists, museum professionals, park rangers, birders, conservationists, sound designers, musicians, artists, radio producers and many more.
Nature Sounds Society's Events
- Beginning Birding by Ear & Nature Sounds Society (1/26/2025)
Grant Heath
Grant Heath is a member of the Altacal Audubon Society 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
- Native Plants in Upper Bidwell (1/25/2025)
- Beginning Birding by Ear & Nature Sounds Society (1/26/2025)
Cassie Corridoni
Cassie Corridoni is an Environmental Scientist for California State Parks, is an avid nature enthusiast, and became a hobby birder in 2019. Cassie graduated from the Wildland Management program at Chico State in 2023, and collaborated with Altacal on her graduate research on post-fire bird diversity at the Butte Creek Ecological Preserve.
Cassie Corridoni's Events
- Beginning Birding by Ear & Nature Sounds Society (1/26/2025)