The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A cardinal perched on a branch.
What's that sound? Birding by ear can be a rewarding way to grow birding knowledge
8/18/2021Read moreLooking for a challenge? Give birding by ear a try.
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A scarab beetle on a log.
What's the difference: Insects vs. arachnids
8/17/2021Read moreInsects or arachnid? There are a few key differences.
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A mosquito on a leaf.
Five fast facts about those pesky mosquitoes
8/9/2021Read moreFive facts about mosquitoes — perhaps the most hated creature on Earth.
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An American kestrel perched on a power line.
Nature curiosity: How can birds sit on power lines?
8/2/2021Read moreWe all know to keep a safe distance from power lines, so how are birds and squirrels able to touch them without consequence?
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Lightning bugs lighting up the night.
Five fun facts about bioluminescent lightning bugs
7/16/2021Read moreLightning bugs are a summer tradition, and there's plenty about these insects that is fascinating.
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A cottonmouth and a northern water snake side by side.
What's the difference?: Northern water snake vs. cottonmouth
7/15/2021Read moreHarmless northern water snake or venomous cottonmouth? In northern Illinois, there's no doubt it's a harmless water snake.
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A colorful sunset.
Just relax: How to enjoy your time in the great outdoors
6/29/2021Read moreSpending time outdoors is good for you, but it can be tough to find the time. Here's some simple and easy ideas for enjoying the great outdoors.
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A river otter.
Five fun facts about those playful river otters
6/25/2021Read morePlayful river otters were once endangered in Illinois, but they now live in every county in the state. Here's five fun facts about these semi-aquatic animals.
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A mussel in a stream.
Life under water: Freshwater mussels an indicator of healthy habitat
6/22/2021Read moreFreshwater mussels are an indicator of clean water, but as we have changed the flow of our rivers, their population has plummeted.
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A monarch on a wildflower.
The monarchs are disappearing, but here's how you can help
6/21/2021Read moreMonarch populations continue to plummet, but there are things you can do to help.
Current Headlines
Start your autumn with family-friendly fun at Fall on the Farm event on Sept. 14
Fall on the Farm is set for Saturday, Sept. 14, at Riverview Farmstead Preserve. Attendees can explore the 19th-century buildings, visit a petting zoo, try their hand at farm chores, view antique tractors and enjoy live bluegrass music.
Visitor centers to close on Labor Day, bait shops will be open
Forest Preserve visitor centers will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2, for the Labor Day holiday, but concession stands will be open at Monee Reservoir in Monee Township and Hidden Lakes Trout Farm at Hidden Oaks Preserve in Bolingbrook.