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All Buzz Articles
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A woolly bear caterpillar walking on the ground
Myth buster: Woolly bear caterpillars don't really predict winter weather
11/4/2020Read moreThe bands on woolly bear caterpillars are said to be a sign about what Mother Nature has in store for us each winter, but in reality these insects can't tell us anything about the weather.
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An eastern bluebird on a branch
Nature curiosity: Why is blue so rare in the animal kingdom?
10/24/2020Read moreCreatures come in all sizes, shapes and colors, but not all colors are represented equally. Find out why blue is so rare in the animal kingdom.
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An apple core discarded on the ground
Think twice before your drop that apple core on the ground; it's still littering
10/21/2020Read moreFood scraps don't decompose as fast as you might think, so leaving your apple cores and banana peels behind is bad news for many reasons.
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A wolf spider walking on pavement
Creature feature: The creepy, crawly wolf spider
10/19/2020Read moreWith eight long legs, eight eyes and fangs for mouthparts, wolf spiders look scarier than they are. In reality, they aren't dangerous at all, and they play an important role in the ecosystem.
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Ladybugs on a log
What's the difference?: Ladybug vs. lady beetle
10/15/2020Read moreLadybug or lady beetles? Are these creatures one and the same?
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A beaver swimming in water
Nature curiosity: How do beavers hold their breath for so long?
9/30/2020Read moreHow do beavers stay under water for so long? Their bodies are specially designed for it.
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An orb weaver in a web
Myth buster: Spider silk is as strong as steel? It's not quite so simple
9/25/2020Read moreIs spider silk as strong as steel? Yes and no.
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A spiny softshell turtle on a log by water
Creature feature: The more vulnerable spiny softshell turtle
9/23/2020Read moreEastern spiny softshell turtles aren't as large as snapping turtles, but they are one of the biggest freshwater turtles in the United States.
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A side by side comparison of a frog and toad
What's the difference?: Frog vs. toad
9/11/2020Read moreFrogs and toads are both amphibians, and the differences between them can be confusing and subtle.
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A row of pelicans on the water
Five fascinating facts about pelicans
9/10/2020Read moreThe American white pelicans are back, but there's probably a lot you don't know about these big birds. Dive in to learn more about one of the more beloved animals seen in Will County.
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.