The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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Luna moth on a window
Creature feature: The lovely luna moth
5/28/2019The lovely luna moth is prized by many for its beauty. But there's more to these moths than just their outward appearance.
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A young robin on the ground
Nature curiosity: How do birds learn to fly?
5/2/2019Birds don't hatch knowing how to fly. Much like babies learning to walk, learning to fly is a process for baby birds, one that often involves a lot of trial and error.
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A squirrel eating in a tree
Nature curiosity: Why don't squirrels throw up?
4/23/2019Squirrels and other rodents are incapable of vomiting. Why they can't is related to their anatomy and physiology.
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A killdeer along the water's edge
Creature feature: The crafty killdeer
4/22/2019One of most common birds in North America, the killdeer has a few tricks up its sleeve when it comes to protecting its nest from potential threats.
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A closeup of a dandelion in the grass
The war on dandelions is killing bees, but it doesn't have to
4/17/2019As we prepare to declare war on dandelions, it's important to remember just how important these "weeds" are for bees.
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A roly poly on the ground
Roly-poly bugs: Appreciated but misunderstood
4/11/2019Roly-polies are a rare bug that draws appreciation rather than ire, but most of us don't know much about these creatures beyond that they can roll themselves up into a ball as a defense mechanism.
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A snapping turtle on the trail
Creature feature: The powerful snapping turtle
4/10/2019The snapping turtle isn't hunted by many animals, but it does face many risks in the wild, including being hit by cars and having their nests hunted.
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A ruby-throated hummingbird at a feeder
The recipe for success with hummingbird feeders: Sugar and water
4/4/2019Seeing hummingbirds in the wild is a true delight, and you can attract these tiny birds to your own yard by stocking hummingbirds with food made simply by mixing sugar and boiling water.
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Sandhill cranes flying overhead
Nature curiosity: How do migratory birds know where to go?
4/1/2019Many birds travel hundreds if not thousands of miles twice each year during their migration with no map to guide them. How do they know what route to take?
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A red-headed woodpecker drumming on a tree
The telltale sights — and sounds — that woodpeckers are living nearby
3/29/2019Woodpeckers leave both visual and auditory clues of their presence, and with a good eye and a good ear you can see and hear the signs.
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.