The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A squirrel hanging from a feeder
Has your bird feeder become a squirrel feeder? Here are some ideas to keep those rascals away
1/16/2020Are your attempts at feeding the birds inadvertently keeping the neighborhood squirrels well fed? We're here to help.
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An eastern gray squirrel sitting on a stump
Creature feature: The agile gray squirrel
1/15/2020Do you know what kind of squirrel is taking up residence in your yard? Learn more about eastern gray squirrels and how to differentiate them from other squirrels that live in Illinois.
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Moss and lichen growing on a log.
What's the difference: Lichens vs. mosses
1/14/2020Can you tell the difference between a lichen and a moss? They often look very similar, but there are a few key differences.
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A coyote on the prairie after a prescribed burn
How to stay safe and avoid unnecessary coyote encounters
1/9/2020Seeing coyotes in your neighborhood is not cause for alarm because these animals are common throughout all of Illinois. You can keep yourself and your pets safe from them by following some simple, common-sense precautions.
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Scenic view of a full moon on a winter night
Myth buster: The full moon doesn't really change human behavior
1/2/2020Think the full moon makes people act a little batty? Think again. This belief has existed for many moons, but it simply isn't true.
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A trumpeter swan flying low over the ground
What's the difference: Trumpeter swan vs. tundra swan vs. mute swan
12/27/2019Three types of swans populate our waterways, but these white birds can be hard to tell apart from one another. Learn what features can help you distinguish between trumpeter swans, tundra swans and mute swans.
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A barn owl on a stump
Five fascinating facts you probably don't know about owls
12/20/2019Many owls are masters of camouflage, far more often heard than seen.
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A mink looking off in the distance
Creature feature: The mysterious mink
12/17/2019The mysterious mink lives across Illinois, but are not often seen by humans.
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A great blue heron flying low over the water
Birds are modern-day dinosaurs? Believe it!
12/12/2019Despite what you learned in school many years ago, dinosaurs do still exist. The birds we see today are actually modern-day dinosaurs.
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A muskrat in a wetland
Creature feature: The mighty muskrat
12/2/2019If you've ever caught a glimpse of a muskrat, it was probably near water. These rodents spend most of their time in and around water, feasting on aquatic plants and animals.
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.