The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A colorful sunset.
The science behind those picture-perfect sunsets
9/10/2021A picture-perfect sunset is far from a guarantee, and a lot of factors play into whether the sun's inevitable slip below the horizon each day will take your breath away.
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A monarch chrysalis.
What's the difference?: Chrysalis vs. cocoon
9/3/2021A chrysalis and a cocoon are not one and the same. Learn the differences between them, starting with which insect uses which.
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Prairie wildflowers in a field.
Five facts about America's once vast prairie
8/27/2021America's prairies have long been celebrated, but they've mostly disappeared.
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A woman in a raincoat standing in the rain.
Nature curiosity: Why does rain smell so good?
8/27/2021Who doesn't love the sweet, earthy smell of rain?
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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
8/18/2021Looking 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
8/17/2021Insects or arachnid? There are a few key differences.
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A mosquito on a leaf.
Five fast facts about those pesky mosquitoes
8/9/2021Five 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?
8/2/2021We 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
7/16/2021Lightning 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
7/15/2021Harmless northern water snake or venomous cottonmouth? In northern Illinois, there's no doubt it's a harmless water snake.
Current Headlines
Channahon teacher wins first place in fall Take It Outside Challenge
Sarah Goodin of Channahon won first place in the Fall Frolic installment of the 2024 Take It Outside Challenge. She completed all 212 missions to win a $500 gift card for first place.
Forest Preserve Board reorganizes, elects new officers
The Forest Preserve District's Board reorganized on Dec. 19 and elected officers for the next two years. Destinee Ortiz of Romeoville was selected as president for the first year of a two-year term, and Judy Ogalla of Monee will serve as president for the second year of the term.