Big Chico Creek facts for kids
Big Chico Creek is a natural waterway in California. It starts near Colby Mountain in Tehama County, California. The creek then flows for about 46 miles (74 kilometers). It eventually joins the Sacramento River in Butte County.
The creek's path goes from high up in the mountains to lower areas. It starts around 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) above sea level near Colby Mountain. By the time it reaches the Sacramento River, it's only about 120 feet (37 meters) above sea level. This shows how much the land slopes down along its journey.
A part of Big Chico Creek flows right through the city of Chico. It runs through Bidwell Park, a large city park, and also past California State University, Chico.
Nature Around the Creek
Big Chico Creek is home to many different plants and animals. The area along the creek, called the riparian zone, is especially rich in life. This zone includes the plants and trees that grow right next to the water.
Fish and Wildlife
One important fish that lives in the creek is the Chinook salmon. These salmon are a threatened species, which means their numbers are low and they need protection. Every year, adult Chinook salmon swim upstream in Big Chico Creek to lay their eggs. This journey is called a "spawning run." They travel to areas like Higgin's Hole to reproduce.
Plants and Flowers
Many beautiful wildflowers grow in the area around Big Chico Creek. One example is the yellow mariposa lily, known scientifically as Calochortus luteus. These flowers add bright colors to the landscape, especially in spring.
