The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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An orb weaver in a web
Myth buster: Spider silk is as strong as steel? It's not quite so simple
9/25/2020Is spider silk as strong as steel? Yes and no.
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A spiny softshell turtle on a log by water
Creature feature: The more vulnerable spiny softshell turtle
9/23/2020Eastern spiny softshell turtles aren't as large as snapping turtles, but they are one of the biggest freshwater turtles in the United States.
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A side by side comparison of a frog and toad
What's the difference?: Frog vs. toad
9/11/2020Frogs and toads are both amphibians, and the differences between them can be confusing and subtle.
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A row of pelicans on the water
Five fascinating facts about pelicans
9/10/2020The American white pelicans are back, but there's probably a lot you don't know about these big birds. Dive in to learn more about one of the more beloved animals seen in Will County.
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Monarch butterfly on a yellow flower
Creature feature: The treasured monarch
9/8/2020The monarch is the most recognizable butterfly in the United States, but these winged creatures aren't as common as they used to be.
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Turkey vulture with its wings spread
Birds sunbathe just like humans, but not always for the same reasons
9/2/2020Birds bask in the sun just like us. Sometimes they are just trying to warm up or dry off, but sunbathing also helps birds stay healthy and more attractive to potential mates.
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Night view with lightning in background
Myth buster: There's no such thing as heat lightning
8/28/2020Heat lightning is just a myth. What we think of as heat lightning is really just lightning from a thunderstorm that is too far away to experience its other effects.
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Litter along a trail
Plogging is one fitness trend we hope sticks around for good
8/24/2020Plogging is jogging while picking up trash you find along the way, and we hope it's a fitness fad that doesn't fade away.
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A garter snake in the grass.
Nature curiosity: Why do snakes shed their skin?
8/19/2020Snakes are unique in that they shed their skin whole, a process called ecdysis. But why do they do this differently than other animals?
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A rabbit sitting in a field
Creature feature: The prolific eastern cottontail rabbit
8/14/2020You've probably seen a cottontail rabbit, but how much do you know about these common creatures?
Current Headlines
Half-price dog park permits go on sale July 1
Half-price dog park permits will be available for purchase starting July 1 online and at Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet. The permits can be used at all six Forest Preserve dog parks through the end of 2025.
Volunteer opportunities abound in the preserves this summer
The Forest Preserve District is offering a variety of short-term volunteer opportunities this summer, from hands-on habitat restoration to helping at public programs and events. With limited space and high demand, early registration is encouraged.