Red-Headed Woodpeckers and Buttercups: Bird and wildflower walks at Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve

The Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve announces a series of five short (2-hour) bird and wildflower walks in the reserve on the following dates:

Bird Walks, 7:30 am March 17, April 7, 13

Wildflower Walks, 9:30 am March 23, April 6, 7

BIRD WALKS The bird walks will be led by ornithologist Roger Lederer, Ph.D., director of the Bidwell Institute and manager of the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve. Bring binoculars and a bird guide.

WILDFLOWER WALKS The wildflower walks will be led by Nancy Hawley. Bring a hand lens and field guide, if you have them.

Meet at the indicated times above at the east lot of the Park and Ride between Eighth and Ninth streets and the freeway in Chico. Car pooling to the reserve will be expected.

Any significant rain within 24 hours of the scheduled trip will be reason for cancellation as access to the reserve will be difficult. Participants will be required to sign a waiver and agree to abide by the reserve’s guidelines.

For more information and questions call Professor Lederer at x6317; e-mail rlederer@csuchico.edu; or visit http://www.csuchico.edu/bei/BCCER/hikes.htm.

The Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve is comprised of two parcels and almost 4,000 acres of land, formerly the Simmons and Hennings ranches. The reserve is a rich riparian and upland habitat for more than 140 species of fish and wildlife, located approximately 10 miles northeast of Chico near Bidwell Park.

Applicants for a permit to the reserve can now submit an electronic form by going to www.csuchico.edu/beipermitform.htm.