The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A monarch on a wildflower.
Monarch population plummeting, and a known parasite may be killing millions a year, study finds
3/21/2022Monarch populations have plummeted by more than 80% over the past two decades, and a known pathogenic parasite may be contributing to the devastating decline more than previously thought.
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Two pileated woodpeckers on the ground.
What's the difference?: Male vs. female pileated woodpecker
3/19/2022Male and female pileated woodpeckers look similar, but they are not identical. If you look closely at the coloring on their heads and faces, you can tell the difference.
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A rat on the ground.
Using rat poison to control rodent infestations can have devastating effects on other wildlife
3/17/2022Everything in nature is connected, so when you use rodenticides to control rodent infestations in and around your home the effects may be more far reaching than you intended.
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Two Canada geese in the grass in a defensive posture.
Five feisty facts about Canada geese
3/8/2022Get the lowdown on Canada geese, one of our most common and widespread birds.
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A cedar waxwing perched on a branch with fruit in its mouth.
Cedar waxwings are eye-catching birds that you won't confuse with anything else
2/16/2022Cedar waxwings are unique in appearance and are also different from most birds in that they can exist on fruit alone for months at a time.
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Two deer standing in a shallow stream.
Five things about those shy and inquisitive white-tailed deer
2/15/2022Here are five fun facts about our curious white-tailed deer.
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Four swallows in various habitats.
What's the difference?: How to identify some of our most common sparrows
2/14/2022Illinois is home to many sparrow species, and telling one from another is no easy task. Learn some of the key ID features among our most common sparrows.
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A raccoon hanging on a bird feeder in a tree.
How to keep raccoons away from your bird feeders
2/4/2022Raccoons can be just as troublesome as squirrels around bird feeders, but there's a few tricks to keep them away.
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An aerial view of a frozen pond.
Nature curiosity: Why do frozen lakes creak or groan?
2/3/2022Have you ever heard an ice-covered lake creaking or groaning? It's normal in winter because of how temperature changes affect ice.
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An aerial view of a snow-covered bridge in a forest.
Nature curiosity: How do trees survive winter?
2/3/2022Even in a mild winter, trees have a lot to endure. How do they do it?
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.