The buzz
All Buzz Articles
-
A mosquito biting a person's arm
A world without mosquitoes? It's not as great an idea as it may seem
3/11/2020A world without mosquitoes might sound nice, but removing one species from its habitat can have far-ranging and devastating consequences.
-
A queen snake slithering on a leafy branch
What's the difference?: Reptile vs. amphibian
3/8/2020Is a snake a reptile or an amphibian? How about a frog? These two classes of animals have some similarities, but some key characteristics also set them apart.
-
Green moss growing on the base of a tree
Myth buster: Moss doesn't only grow on the north side of trees
2/28/2020If you rely on the myth that moss only grows on the north side of trees to guide you through a forest, you're likely to get lost.
-
A man hiking on an ice covered path
Nature curiosity: Why is ice so slippery?
2/28/2020Icy is slippery; it's one of those things people just know to be true, like water being wet. But the science behind this fact has only recently become well understood.
-
A badger on the forest floor
Creature feature: American badgers are digging machines
2/21/2020The American badger isn't as well-known as many of the other mammals that call Will County home, but these fascinating creatures are exceptional diggers that are known to work alongside coyotes to hunt.
-
A white-breasted nuthatch hanging from a feeder while eating
Don't feed the wildlife? What about the birds?
2/13/2020Don't feed the animals. We hear it all the time. Yet many of us make a habit of feeding wild birds. Why are birds any different than other wildlife?
-
Baby opossums on their mother's back
Nature curiosity: Why do marsupials have pouches?
2/12/2020For marsupials, only adult females have pouches, and they serve an important role in the reproductive process.
-
Scenic view of a wood bridge at McKinley Woods
What's the difference?: Woods vs. forest
2/6/2020A walk in the woods or a walk in the forest? Is there even a difference?
-
A downy woodpecker in a tree
Creature feature: The diminutive downy woodpecker
2/5/2020Downy woodpeckers are the smallest woodpecker in North America. Learn more about these birds in this creature feature.
-
A frog in a wetland
Myth buster: Frogs and toads don't cause warts
2/3/2020Toads and frogs can give you warts? Think again. Warts are caused by a human virus, and you won't get them from handling an animal.
Current Headlines
Independence Day holiday closures announced
Most Forest Preserve visitor centers will be closed at noon Thursday, July 3, and all day Friday, July 4, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Bait shop hours will vary. Preserves, trails and dog parks will remain open.
'Into the Wild' art exhibit blends nature and creativity
The “Into the Wild Art Exhibition” runs July 5 through Aug. 30 at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook. The free exhibit showcases nature-themed art by local artists from the Nature Artists' Guild of The Morton Arboretum. Visitors can vote for their favorite pieces.