Meet at the parking lot for the Llano Seco Viewing Platform on 7 Mile Lane for a morning of photography. Depending on the waterfowl distribution at the time, we will photograph at either Llano Seco or travel to either Colusa NWR or Sacramento NWR. We will photograph birds, particularly waterfowl, so come prepared with telephoto lenses but also have a wide angle lens available for scenic photographs. Reservations required through the Sacramento Wildlife Refuge. 530-934-2801 or email sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov. Space is limited to 20 participants.

Presenter: Steve Emmons

California is excited to celebrate the beginning of what could be one of our state’s most inspiring conservation stories: the return of the gray wolf, after being absent for decades following extirpation by humans. As a keystone predator, wolves provide a critical balance to the ecosystem in which they belong. To prepare for the return of wolves in California, the California Wolf Center is working to forge a visionary path for wolf recovery that focuses on solutions, instead of the conflict that often pervades wolf recovery elsewhere. No other animal in history has so captured the imagination of people than the wolf! Come learn about the true nature of this dynamic predator and what the return of this iconic species means to our golden state.

Presenter: Karin Vardaman

This year we will feature an eclectic assortment of interesting maps from around the North Valley and beyond. Get the bird’s eye view of our local landscape features. Stroll through maps in the CMFC hallway and let your curiosity take you on a tour.

Displays by State, Federal, and Non-profit organizations. Plus vendors selling everything from binoculars to bird books.

All 100 California winners from nearly 2,000 entries will be on display. Don’t forget to see the Chico winners.

Smokey the Bear and the National Wildlife Refuge’s Blue Goose will be visiting at various times courtesy of the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge. Also be sure to visit the US Fish & Wildlife Service fire safety exhibit booth.

They are one of the most beneficial, yet most misunderstood animals in the world. Learn more about the habits, habitats, and species of bats that reside within the unique ecosystems of California’s valleys and forests.

Presenter: Linda Angerer

Learn the basics about Binoculars and Spotting Scopes for bird watching! What do the numbers mean? Isn't higher power always better? This will be a "show and tell" discussion about the differences in size, quality, and construction of optics so that you can make a good choice for your needs and budget. Sample optics will be available from numerous manufacturers to illustrate. Marilyn Rose from Out of This World Discount Binoculars will be the presenter.

Presenter: Marilyn Rose

Along with the Live Animal Presentations, Meet Smokey Bear and Blue Goose, Junior Duck Stamp Display, and Web of Life Activity, children may earn a Junior Naturalist Certificate by participating in a few activities designed just for children. There will be nature crafts, make a bird call and much, much more!

Filmed in the Gray Lodge Wildlife Refuge, The Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, The Llano Seco Wildlife Refuge, and the wetlands and rice fields in and around the counties of Butte and Colusa in California, this beautiful video gives viewers a close-up look at many of the migratory birds that come from as far away as Siberia and the Arctic Circle to make their homes in the Sacramento Valley's wetlands each winter. Included are Snow Geese, Ross's Geese, Greater White-Fronted Geese, Canada Geese, Tundra Swans, Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, and many other species.

Presenter: Henry Ganzler

This workshop is a great opportunity for educators, adults, and children ages ten and older to learn about some of the world’s most exciting active earth processes. Learn about the unique geologic features of this national park and how to identify the four major types of volcanoes using a variety of fun and creative techniques. Educational props, volcanic rocks, visual display, and other resources will be used to enhance this presentation.

Presenter: Steve Zachery

The Sacramento River is a birder's paradise! Many public areas are accessible only by boat and are very wild due to the lack of car access. The Sacramento River is a major part of the Pacific Flyway and attracts migrating waterfowl to its waters each year and is also home to many endemic and annual species of birds like the rare Yellow-billed cuckoo. Join Lucas as he takes you on a guided virtual trip along the main stem of the Sacramento River both by boat and by boot.

Presenter: Lucas RossMerz

Meet "Checkers" a Great Horned Owl as Marilyn shares some fascinating facts, unique habits, and curious myths about these beautiful birds of prey. Learn about wildlife rehabilitation and what you can do to help native wildlife. A surprise visit by other raptors is sure to delight all ages.

Presenter: Marilyn Gamette