The buzz

Trillions of cigarettes are littered each year, creating a lasting impact for the environment. And now, with the rising popularity of e-cigarettes, litter from smoking includes both hazardous and electronic waste.

Spider silk is stronger than any other fiber on Earth, but how do these eight-legged creatures make it? They are specially equipped for making silk, with glands and structures designed for just that purpose. 

American white pelicans make their presence known in Will County twice a year, so get to know more about these biannual visitors in our creature feature.

Males bees, the drones, have an unusual way of showing affection for the queen – they try to blind her. It may sound bizarre, but it makes perfectly good sense.

The name of the green dragon plant conjures up some fantastical images, but in reality you have to have quite an imagination to see the plant's resemblance to a fictitious reptile.

Can't tell the difference between a Cooper's hawk and a sharp-shinned hawk? You're not alone. These two birds are strikingly similar in appearance, but there's a few things to look for to tell them apart.

Birds' feathers make them unique in the animal kingdom, and those feathers help birds in many ways.

Squirrels eavesdrop on birds to help them determine if an area is safe from potential predators, according to a recent study.

"Leaves of three, let it be" is a good rule of thumb, but knowing more about poison ivy may help you avoid an itchy rash. 

The royal-sounding queen snake is common in the Great Lakes region. This snake, often seen near water, is sometimes confused with the garter snake and the northern water snake. Learn what sets it apart.