The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A common merganser with a broken beak
Nature curiosity: How do birds survive with broken beaks?
2/26/2019Read moreCan a bird survive with a broken beak? It often depends on where the injury is and how severe it is, as well as whether the bird can still eat.
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American woodcock in a field
Creature feature: The wacky woodcock
2/19/2019Read moreThe American woodcock is related to the sandpiper, but you wouldn't know it based on its behavior. Woodcocks are known for their unusual antics, including elaborate and sometimes noisy "sky dances" and a weird walk to help them find food.
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The big bridge at Goodenow Grove in the fall
Study shows learning to love nature is not just for kids
2/13/2019Read moreSpending time outdoors is good for you, but what if you didn't grow up with a love of nature? Can you develop an appreciation for it as an adult? You can, according to a recent study.
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A red-headed woodpecker on a branch
Creature feature: The striking red-headed woodpecker
2/8/2019Read moreWith its crimson cap and stunning black and white wings, the red-headed woodpecker is a beauty among birds.
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A closeup view of a raccoon's face
Nature curiosity: How do animals see in the dark?
2/7/2019Read moreEach night as darkness falls, we begin to wind down our day, eventually settling in for sleep. For many animals, however, these same cues that signal the end of our day mean it’s time to start theirs.
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A slide through history: Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
2/6/2019Read moreOnly ruins remain of the Joliet Iron Works, but thanks to a historic aerial photo, we can see the heart and soul of the steel mill prior to it being dismantled.
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A coyote howling in the snow
Nature curiosity: Why do coyotes howl?
1/31/2019Read moreThe sound of a coyote howling in the night is enough to stop people in their tracks, but have you ever stopped to think about what they are saying?
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A blue jay with a nut in its mouth
A trick of nature: Blue jays aren't really blue
1/25/2019Read moreIt might shock you to learn blue jays aren't actually blue. Instead, we just perceive them to be blue because of how light passes through the birds' feathers.
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Geese on a frozen lake
Nature curiosity: Why don't birds' feet freeze?
1/24/2019Read moreEver shiver at the sight of birds on the ice in the dead of winter? No need to worry. Geese and other waterfowl are built to withstand these harsh conditions.
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A groundhog walking in the grass
Creature feature: The season-predicting groundhog
1/23/2019Read moreThe groundhog becomes a celebrity each year on February 2, awakening from a months-long slumber to "predict" when winter will end. Beyond this annual ritual, most Americans know little about the groundhog.
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.