The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A woman in a raincoat standing in the rain.
Nature curiosity: Why does rain smell so good?
8/27/2021Read moreWho doesn't love the sweet, earthy smell of rain?
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A cardinal perched on a branch.
What's that sound? Birding by ear can be a rewarding way to grow birding knowledge
8/18/2021Read moreLooking for a challenge? Give birding by ear a try.
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A scarab beetle on a log.
What's the difference: Insects vs. arachnids
8/17/2021Read moreInsects or arachnid? There are a few key differences.
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A mosquito on a leaf.
Five fast facts about those pesky mosquitoes
8/9/2021Read moreFive facts about mosquitoes — perhaps the most hated creature on Earth.
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An American kestrel perched on a power line.
Nature curiosity: How can birds sit on power lines?
8/2/2021Read moreWe all know to keep a safe distance from power lines, so how are birds and squirrels able to touch them without consequence?
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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.
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.