Join Jackson Shedd, (local author and wildlife artist as well as current Director and Past-President of the Altacal Audubon Society) for a presentation on Chico's herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles), their importance and role in ecology, our declining species, and why he wrote the book "Amphibians and Reptiles of Bidwell Park." When most people think of the word “Audubon”, birds usually come to mind. However, the National Audubon Society serves to promote awareness and conservation of all wildlife. After all, birds are technically reptiles.

December General Meeting – Monday, December 12, 2005, Chico Creek Nature Center

Phil Johnson spoke about the history of the Chico Christmas Bird Count (CBC) and explained how it works.  He followed that with a bird identification slide show as a preparation exercise for the upcoming CBCs in Chico and Oroville.  Without question, young Liam Huber was the star bird identifier of the evening.  Following Phil’s presentations, J.T. Lewis presented a slide show of beautiful bird photos he took in the U.S., Canada and Africa over 2005.

January General Meeting – Monday, January 16, 2006, Chico Creek Nature Center

A special general meeting was held on January 16^th preparatory to the Snow Goose Festival (January 27^th-29th).  Jay Bogiatto (faculty, Dept. of Biology, CSUC) provided a fascinating talk and slide show on migratory waterfowl in the Valley.  Those who attended the meeting have an enhanced understanding of the reasons why we see these beautiful birds in our part of California.  In addition to Jay’s presentation the group discussed recent bird sightings including Trumpeter Swans in Butte County, a Palm Warbler at Gray Lodge and an Ovenbird in Solano County.