DURHAM, Calif. — The Snow Goose Festival has soared into action for its 26th year, celebrating the seasonal gathering of winter birds across the Northern Sacramento Valley.
An estimated 700 bird watchers are expected to take part in the four-day festival, which runs through Sunday and offers a chance to see and learn about more than 150 bird species throughout the North Valley.
On Thursday, a small group of bird enthusiasts fanned out across Hooker Oak Park in Chico, home to roughly two dozen species ranging from woodpeckers to sparrows. Guided walks like this one are a core part of the festival, helping participants learn where to look — and what they’re looking at.
Leading the group was Grant Heath, a Snow Goose Festival trip leader, who guided hikers on a roughly two-mile loop through the park, stopping frequently to spot and identify birds hidden among the trees.
“I love to come on these hikes to spot the birds,” said Judy Keswick, a festival participant. “When I come by myself, I’m not so good at it. But when I come with a group like this, we find beautiful examples of birds.”
Even larger birds such as woodpeckers can be difficult to spot without trained eyes or binoculars. Many smaller birds blend seamlessly into branches and leaves, often revealing themselves only through their calls.
Heath said bird watching’s appeal lies in its accessibility.
“I think it’s because they’re just so accessible,” he said. “They’re quite charismatic too, compared to bugs and that kind of thing.”
That accessibility is reflected in the festival’s wide reach. Headquartered at the Patrick Ranch Museum in Durham, the Snow Goose Festival features more than 55 field trips, workshops and activities spread across the region, including canoe trips at the Thermalito Afterbay and excursions along the Sacramento River.
Pre-registration is required, and several events are already sold out. A full schedule and registration information are available on the festival’s website.