The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A rose-breasted grosbeak perched on a branch with a seed on its mouth.
The rose-breasted grosbeak: A pretty bird with a pretty song
6/24/2024With their recognizable namesake plumage, rose-breasted grosbeaks are a welcome sight. Learn what else makes these birds special.
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A snapping turtle laying on a log above the water with its shell covered in duckweed and other vegetation.
Quiz: Are you savvy about snapping turtles?
6/21/2024Find out by answering these 10 questions.
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A side-by-side comparison of a common grackle and a European starling with both birds perched on tree branches.
What's the difference?: Grackle vs. starling
6/18/2024Can you tell the difference between a grackle and a starling? Which is larger? Which gets white polka dots in the winter? Here is your chance to find out.
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An opossum atop a wooden fence.
Quiz: Are you an expert on opossums?
6/8/2024Find out by answering these 10 questions.
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An Asian longhorned tick on a leaf.
New tick sighting in Illinois a reminder to be vigilant
6/7/2024An invasive tick called the Asian longhorned tick has been discovered for the first time in Illinois.
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A monarch butterfly at rest on a yellow flower.
Quiz: Are you a monarch master?
6/6/2024Test you knowledge about monarchs with this 10-question quiz.
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A shiny metallic green six-spotted tiger beetle in the soil.
Six-spotted tiger beetles: Flashes on the forest floor
6/5/2024If you catch a glimpse of a flash of green on the forest floor, you might be on the trail of a six-spotted tiger beetle.
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A new moon high in the sky above pinkish clouds just after the sun has set.
Five things about the mysterious moon
6/1/2024The moon is a constant in our lives, and it's long been a source of curiosity and inspiration. Here is your chance to learn more about it.
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A double rainbow over a prairie.
Nature curiosity: What causes a rainbow to appear?
5/31/2024Learn the science behind a rainbow and why you might even be able to see one in the dark.
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A turkey vulture, with its dark body and red head, comes in for landing next to another on a path.
Quiz: What's your turkey vulture IQ?
5/30/2024Find out by answering these 10 questions.
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.