The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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Lightning bugs lighting up the night.
Five fun facts about bioluminescent lightning bugs
7/16/2021Read moreLightning bugs are a summer tradition, and there's plenty about these insects that is fascinating.
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A cottonmouth and a northern water snake side by side.
What's the difference?: Northern water snake vs. cottonmouth
7/15/2021Read moreHarmless northern water snake or venomous cottonmouth? In northern Illinois, there's no doubt it's a harmless water snake.
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A colorful sunset.
Just relax: How to enjoy your time in the great outdoors
6/29/2021Read moreSpending time outdoors is good for you, but it can be tough to find the time. Here's some simple and easy ideas for enjoying the great outdoors.
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A river otter.
Five fun facts about those playful river otters
6/25/2021Read morePlayful river otters were once endangered in Illinois, but they now live in every county in the state. Here's five fun facts about these semi-aquatic animals.
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A mussel in a stream.
Life under water: Freshwater mussels an indicator of healthy habitat
6/22/2021Read moreFreshwater mussels are an indicator of clean water, but as we have changed the flow of our rivers, their population has plummeted.
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A monarch on a wildflower.
The monarchs are disappearing, but here's how you can help
6/21/2021Read moreMonarch populations continue to plummet, but there are things you can do to help.
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Mosquitoes swarming in the air.
Hate mosquitoes? Try these tricks to keep the buggers at bay
6/18/2021Read moreFrom herb gardens to bug repellents to Skrillex music, here's a primer to stop mosquitoes from ruining your time outside.
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An algae bloom.
Nature curiosity: What is an algal bloom?
6/17/2021Read moreAlgae are always present in water, but in certain conditions they reproduce quickly, resulting in potentially harmful algal blooms.
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An alligator snapping turtle and a common snapping turtle side by side.
What's the difference?: Common snapping turtle vs. alligator snapping turtle
6/9/2021Read moreCommon snapping turtle or alligator snapping turtle? In Will County, the answer is easy.
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A red-spotted admiral butterfly on a leaf.
Five things about those beautiful butterflies
6/3/2021Read moreBrush up on butterflies with these five fascinating facts.
Current Headlines
Lambs Woods closed, trees down in preserves after Monday's storm
Lambs Woods Preserve in Lockport is closed due to a large tree blocking the parking lot after Monday's storm. Also, trees are down and partially blocking trails in other preserves. The cleanup is underway and preserve visitors are urged to use caution as the work continues.
Everyone is welcome at Four Rivers for All Abilities on July 24
Enjoy an outing for people of all abilities at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center during Four Rivers for All Abilities on July 24. Take part in hands-on activities, tour the building and enjoy being in nature as a family, group or individual.