More than just swans: Annual area festival showcases unique wildlife opportunities

Shamaya Sutton, Appeal-Democrat, Marysville, Calif.
·2 min read

Nov. 15—This year's Swan Festival may have been one of the largest to date with tours and activities spread out across the region over Veterans Day weekend.

The event, sponsored by Sutter Buttes Regional Land Trust, is said to celebrate the Pacific Flyway which brings a significant amount of migrating swan, duck, and geese species to the area throughout the fall and winter season.

While swan tours remain one of the primary features, the festival included a wealth of other wildlife and opportunities. One of the highlights of Saturday's exhibition was the presence of West Coast Falconry and NorCal Bats at the Yuba County Government Center in Marysville.

As guests gathered for their 9 a.m. tour, Kate Marden was busy unloading crates of squawking birds with her dedicated team of falconers. Guests had the opportunity to see owls, falcons, hawks, and even an eagle up close and in person. Some were even able to hold the birds on their arm for a very unique picture opportunity.

During Marden's free presentation, guests learned about the important distinctions between birds of prey and other avians, and ways they contribute to the environment through pest control and reducing the spread of disease.

Following Marden was Corky Quirk with NorCal Bats. Quirk captured the audience with her passion, showcasing three live specimens: the big brown bat, Mexican free-tailed bat, and the newly popular pallid bat.

Last month, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill No. 732 into law which will recognize the pallid bat as the official state bat starting in 2024. Like many bats, the pallid bat preys on a variety of insects and invertebrates which directly benefits local farmers and can inadvertently help reduce the risk of forest fires. According to the bill, bats have provided more than a billion dollars worth of pest control to California agriculture.

Along with presentations, Swan Festival attendees were able to learn about the importance of the Yuba River watershed and ongoing efforts being made by organizations such as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to restore and maintain vital habitats. There were also guided hikes being offered throughout the Sutter Buttes mountain range, wine tastings, and even a professional wildlife photography class.

Local swan tours may still be available on weekends through mid-January. For more information about this opportunity, email Genelle.Treaster@wildlife.ca.gov.