The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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The silhouette of a flock of birds in flight as the sun sets.
Nature curiosity: Why do birds migrate at night?
5/1/2023Read moreNot all birds migrate but the majority that do, travel by night. Researchers don't fully understand why, but nocturnal migration does provide some benefits.
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(Photo via Shutterstock)
Nature curiosity: How do trees clean the air?
4/27/2023Read moreTrees serve as Earth's lungs, but how does their breathing help clean the air?
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An American toad sitting on a rocky surface. (Photo via Shutterstock)
Five things about toads, our frogs' lesser-known cousins
4/20/2023Read moreWhat looks a lot like a frog but doesn't jump like a frog or eat like a frog? A toad. Learn what makes toads unique and what separates them from frogs.
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Duck eggs in a nest.
Ducks know what they're doing; leave their nests alone
4/17/2023Read moreThat duck nest you think is in a bad spot probably isn't. The duck knew what she was doing when she built it, and moving it will cause more harm than good. It's also illegal.
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A robin standing in grass with an earthworm in its mouth.
Nature curiosity: How do robins find worms?
4/14/2023Read moreFinding worms below ground is a sensory experience for robins, but they might not be using the senses you think.
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A sprout in soil being held by two hands.
What's the difference: Dirt vs. soil
4/11/2023Read moreWe use the terms soil and dirt interchangeably, but they are not one and the same. Dirt is one component of soil, which is a complex mixture of several components.
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A cellar spider.
Myth buster: Daddy long legs is the most venomous spider in the world
4/6/2023Read moreDaddy long legs are one of the most venomous spiders in the world? Not so, but the rumor has been circulating for generations.
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A beaver gnawing on vegetation.
Five fun facts about those busy beavers
4/5/2023Read moreThe old saying "busy as a beaver" is no joke. Beavers are among the most industrious animals on Earth, and they put their skills to good use.
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A bobcat standing in short grass.
Five facts about stealthy, solitary bobcats
3/24/2023Read moreOf the 40 wildcat species in the world, just the bobcat lives in Illinois, and even its existence here is a surprise to many people.
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A young squirrel sleeping in a tree cavity.
Check your trees for nests before trimming or pruning
3/23/2023Read moreThe trees may still be dormant at this time of year, but they could still be full of life. If you're planning to trim or prune your trees, make sure to give them a good once over to check for active squirrel and bird nests.
Current Headlines
Joliet Junction Trail section to close in December for Interstate 80 work
A section of the Joliet Junction Trail is scheduled to be closed for several days in December due to an Interstate 80 improvement project. The trail will be closed from McDonough Street to Moen Avenue.
Healing With Nature: Crete man battling cancer finds health and hope on paths at Goodenow Grove
Tom Scott of Crete is giving thanks this year for the people in his life who pushed him to start walking at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve as he was recovering from cancer. The daily hikes have given him better health, hope for the future and a new appreciation of nature.