The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A river under a blue sky with puffy clouds.
What's the difference?: River vs. stream vs. creek
9/23/2021What's the difference between a river, a creek and a stream? When it comes right down to it, not much at all.
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A sweat bee on a flower.
No need to sweat non-aggressive sweat bees or lookalike hover flies
9/17/2021Sweat bees and hover flies are often confused for both one another and for other bees. Neither poses any threat, however, and both are essential insects.
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A jumping worm on wood.
Invasion of the jumping worms: They're a big threat to soil quality
9/16/2021Invasion of the jumping worms isn't the next box-office thriller. These invasive worms are becoming widespread in Illinois, destroying the soil quality wherever they are.
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Maple leaves in the sunlight.
Nature curiosity: Why do leaves flip before it rains?
9/14/2021Do leaves tell us when it's going to rain? They can, but as with most weather forecasts, there are no guarantees.
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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.
Current Headlines
Visitor centers to close for Easter weekend
Forest Preserve visitor centers will be closed on Friday, April 18, and Easter Sunday, April 20. Preserves, trails and dog parks will remain open. The Tackle Box bait shop at Hidden Oaks Preserve will be open on Friday but closed Sunday.
'Contagious passion' earns Fuqua Volunteer of the Year Award
John Fuqua received the Forest Preserve District of Will County's Volunteer of the Year Award and Don and Espie Nelson were given a Lifetime Achievement Award during the annual volunteer banquet.