The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A closeup of bluebell blossoms.
Five things you might not know about spring
3/20/2025When it comes to spring, there's so much to love. But there's also probably a lot you don't know about our most-anticipated season.
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A short-eared owl in flight with its wings extended and its head turned to the side.
Quiz: Can you ace this short-eared owl quiz?
3/19/2025Test your knowledge on this 10-question quiz.
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A chorus frog with its throat outstretched.
Happening now: Chorus frogs are loudly seeking mates
3/18/2025If you venture out into the preserves these days, there's a good chance you'll hear chorus frogs making a racket as they call out looking for a mate.
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A peregrine falcon in a downward dive.
Five facts about the fast-flying peregrine falcon
3/17/2025Peregrine falcons aren't one of those birds we see every day, which makes them a prized find for many birders. Spotting one soaring overhead or swooping down to catch prey is a memorable experience.
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Two American woodcocks in the grass.
Happening now: Male woodcocks performing their elaborate courtship ritual
3/13/2025Now is the time to see woodcocks out in the preserves, and there's a lot to love about these birds — from the males' elaborate courtship ritual to their cute nicknames.
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A striped skunk walking in grass.
Quiz: What's your skunk IQ?
3/13/2025Find out by answering these 10 questions.
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A closeup photo of a jumping spider.
March 14 is Save a Spider Day, so be a savior instead of a squisher
3/12/2025For Save a Spider Day, here are five reasons you should appreciate these creatures instead of despising them or, even worse, squishing them.
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A common loon in the water.
Happening now: Common loons are passing through. Have you seen one on a local waterway?
3/10/2025Have you spotted a common loon in a local waterway? Their time here will be brief.
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A side-by-side comparison of a bobcat and a lynx. Both cats are walking through snowy landscapes.
What's the difference?: Bobcat vs. Canada lynx
3/7/2025Only one wild cat — the bobcat — lives in Illinois, but in other areas of its range the bobcat can be confused with its close relative the Canada lynx.
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A ruby-throated hummingbird perched on a reddish branch. Its tongue is extended beyond its bill.
Migration watch: Hummingbirds are winging their way north toward Will County
3/6/2025For those on you on hummingbird watch, there's good news to report: Hummingbirds have made it to the U.S. on their annual northern migration, having been spotted as far north as northern Florida, Louisiana and Texas.
Current Headlines
Spring into action with a Volunteer Morning program
Celebrate spring by giving back to nature and helping preserve local habitats. Join the Forest Preserve District for Volunteer Morning program opportunities throughout April, May, and June to make a positive impact on the environment.
Chapman named incoming executive director by Board
Deputy Director Tracy Chapman of Shorewood will be promoted to executive director in May when current Executive Director Ralph Schultz of Plainfield retires after 32 years with the Forest Preserve District.