The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A mosquito on a leaf.
Five fast facts about those pesky mosquitoes
8/9/2021Five 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?
8/2/2021We 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
7/16/2021Lightning 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
7/15/2021Harmless 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
6/29/2021Spending 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
6/25/2021Playful 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
6/22/2021Freshwater 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
6/21/2021Monarch 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
6/18/2021From 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?
6/17/2021Algae are always present in water, but in certain conditions they reproduce quickly, resulting in potentially harmful algal blooms.
Current Headlines
Visitor centers to close for Easter weekend
Forest Preserve visitor centers will be closed on Friday, April 18, and Easter Sunday, April 20. Preserves, trails and dog parks will remain open. The Tackle Box bait shop at Hidden Oaks Preserve will be open on Friday but closed Sunday.
'Contagious passion' earns Fuqua Volunteer of the Year Award
John Fuqua received the Forest Preserve District of Will County's Volunteer of the Year Award and Don and Espie Nelson were given a Lifetime Achievement Award during the annual volunteer banquet.