The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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Canada goose flying upside down
Why is this Canada goose at Lake Renwick flying upside down?
10/25/2018Read moreIt's not your common, everyday occurrence.
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Sandhill cranes in the river
Creature feature: The tall, bulky and elegant sandhill crane
10/23/2018Read moreSandhill cranes are a magnificent sight, whether flying overhead or congregating in prairies and fields, but we often realize the birds are nearby because we hear them before we see them.
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Merlin perched on a branch
Creature feature: The elusive, fast flying merlin
10/12/2018Read moreThese birds are smaller than most falcons, known for their powerful flying and astute hunting abilities.
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Close up of a praying mantis' face
Creature feature: Praying mantis is perfectly designed for hunting prey
10/3/2018Read moreSeptember and October are the most common times to see these intriguing insects.
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Black squirrel on the ground
Have you seen any black squirrels in the preserves?
10/2/2018Read moreWhile no hard data exists, anecdotal evidence indicates this black squirrel at McKinley Woods is indeed a rare find locally.
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Two skunks on a log
The stink on skunks
8/2/2018Read moreIf you — or more likely, your dog — find yourself on the receiving end of a skunk’s stinky spray, you can’t say you weren’t warned.
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Squirrel hanging off a bird feeder
Study shows squirrels steal half of food put in bird feeders
5/24/2018Read moreSquirrels can be relentless when it comes to stealing a meal.
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Dandelion in a field
Dandy dandelions: This 'common weed' has many benefits
5/18/2018Read moreEach spring, homeowners declare war on dandelions, pulling out all the stops to keep America’s most hated weed out of their yards and gardens. But is it a war worth waging? Should we just leave these plants be?
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American woodcock on the ground
Five wild and wacky woodcock facts
3/18/2018Read moreWhen it comes to birds you can see in the preserves, the American woodcock may be the most unique one you'll come across.
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Before and after: Prescribed burn at Braidwood Dunes
3/16/2018Read moreIt's a stunning contrast in photos.
Current Headlines
Trail sections, one preserve closed due to Monday's storms
Sections of the Old Plank Road and Wauponsee Glacial trails and Lambs Woods preserve are closed due to trees blocking the paths after Monday's storm. Debris from the storm is being cleared by staff and contractors. Preserve visitors are urged to use caution as this 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.