The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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Poison ivy on the forest floor
Leaves of three, let it be: How to avoid poison ivy and its itchy rash
9/9/2019Read more"Leaves of three, let it be" is a good rule of thumb, but knowing more about poison ivy may help you avoid an itchy rash.
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Queen snake draped over tree branches
Creature feature: The royal-sounding queen snake
9/5/2019Read moreThe royal-sounding queen snake is common in the Great Lakes region. This snake, often seen near water, is sometimes confused with the garter snake and the northern water snake. Learn what sets it apart.
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Birds flying in a V formation
Nature curiosity: Why do some birds fly in a V formation?
8/29/2019Read moreBirds flying in formation can be an awe-inspiring feat of nature, but how do the birds do it? And why?
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A katydid on a yellow flower
The sounds of the night: Insects create a nocturnal chorus
8/23/2019Read moreIf you listen closely at night, you'll hear a chorus of insects. Cicadas, crickets and katydids all combine to create a symphony of sound.
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A wad of fishing line caught on a branch
A death trap for wildlife: Improperly disposed of fishing line
8/21/2019Read moreFishing line seems like an innocuous tool, but in reality it's a death trap for untold numbers of wildlife.
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A red-tailed hawk taking off from a shrub
Creature feature: The loud and imposing red-tailed hawk
8/16/2019Read moreThat hawk soaring overhead or perched atop a light pole is probably a red-tailed hawk. Learn more about these high-flying birds.
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A millipede on a log
What's the difference?: Centipede vs. millipede
8/9/2019Read moreIs that creepy crawly covered in legs a centipede or a millipede? Here's how to tell.
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Three dogs laying on the ground
Nature curiosity: Do animals get sunburned?
8/6/2019Read moreIf you've ever spent a long day in the sun with no sunscreen, you've probably paid the price in the form of a bad sunburn. But are animals at risk for painful sunburns too?
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Snakes in the water? Don't worry; they're not after you
7/31/2019Read moreLearn more about the northern water snake, one of the most common water snakes in Illinois.
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A plant that does what it's told? Obedient plant isn't just a misnomer
7/29/2019Read moreA plant that does what it's told? The name obedient plant may seem like a misnomer, but the flowers of this plant can be turned in any direction and will stay in place once moved, hence the name.
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.