The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A Blanding's turtle on the ground.
Creature feature: The endangered Blanding's turtle
10/7/2021Turtles are a common sight in and around our waterways, but the state-endangered Blanding's turtle isn't seen as often as the others.
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A white mouse surrounded by mouse traps.
Buyer beware: Mouse traps used outdoors often injure other wildlife
9/30/2021If not used properly, many popular rodent control measures can be dangerous for other wildlife.
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An opossum on a log.
Five fun facts about so-ugly-they're-cute opossums
9/24/2021From their appearance to their behaviors, opossums are unique in many ways.
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A river under a blue sky with puffy clouds.
What's the difference?: River vs. stream vs. creek
9/23/2021What's the difference between a river, a creek and a stream? When it comes right down to it, not much at all.
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A sweat bee on a flower.
No need to sweat non-aggressive sweat bees or lookalike hover flies
9/17/2021Sweat bees and hover flies are often confused for both one another and for other bees. Neither poses any threat, however, and both are essential insects.
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A jumping worm on wood.
Invasion of the jumping worms: They're a big threat to soil quality
9/16/2021Invasion of the jumping worms isn't the next box-office thriller. These invasive worms are becoming widespread in Illinois, destroying the soil quality wherever they are.
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Maple leaves in the sunlight.
Nature curiosity: Why do leaves flip before it rains?
9/14/2021Do leaves tell us when it's going to rain? They can, but as with most weather forecasts, there are no guarantees.
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A colorful sunset.
The science behind those picture-perfect sunsets
9/10/2021A picture-perfect sunset is far from a guarantee, and a lot of factors play into whether the sun's inevitable slip below the horizon each day will take your breath away.
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A monarch chrysalis.
What's the difference?: Chrysalis vs. cocoon
9/3/2021A chrysalis and a cocoon are not one and the same. Learn the differences between them, starting with which insect uses which.
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Prairie wildflowers in a field.
Five facts about America's once vast prairie
8/27/2021America's prairies have long been celebrated, but they've mostly disappeared.
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.