The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A bee on a plant
Nature curiosity: Why do bees sting?
6/11/2019Read moreBees sting for a simple reason: to defend themselves from danger.
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An eastern hognose snake on the ground
'Zombie snakes' have gone viral, but they aren't dangerous to humans
6/11/2019Read moreZombie snakes on the loose? Not really. These snakes are just playing dead to protect themselves from predators, and they pose no risk to humans.
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A split screen view of wild parsnip and golden alexander
What's the difference?: Wild parsnip vs. golden alexander
5/31/2019Read moreKnowing the difference between wild parsnip and golden alexander could save you from a painful, burning rash.
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Tick on a blade of grass
New citizen science program: The tick's in the mail
5/31/2019Read moreYou can help researchers learn more about ticks in Illinois by dropping them in the mail.
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Luna moth on a window
Creature feature: The lovely luna moth
5/28/2019Read moreThe lovely luna moth is prized by many for its beauty. But there's more to these moths than just their outward appearance.
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A young robin on the ground
Nature curiosity: How do birds learn to fly?
5/2/2019Read moreBirds don't hatch knowing how to fly. Much like babies learning to walk, learning to fly is a process for baby birds, one that often involves a lot of trial and error.
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A squirrel eating in a tree
Nature curiosity: Why don't squirrels throw up?
4/23/2019Read moreSquirrels and other rodents are incapable of vomiting. Why they can't is related to their anatomy and physiology.
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A killdeer along the water's edge
Creature feature: The crafty killdeer
4/22/2019Read moreOne of most common birds in North America, the killdeer has a few tricks up its sleeve when it comes to protecting its nest from potential threats.
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A closeup of a dandelion in the grass
The war on dandelions is killing bees, but it doesn't have to
4/17/2019Read moreAs we prepare to declare war on dandelions, it's important to remember just how important these "weeds" are for bees.
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A roly poly on the ground
Roly-poly bugs: Appreciated but misunderstood
4/11/2019Read moreRoly-polies are a rare bug that draws appreciation rather than ire, but most of us don't know much about these creatures beyond that they can roll themselves up into a ball as a defense mechanism.
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.