The buzz
All Buzz Articles
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A woman in a raincoat standing in the rain.
Nature curiosity: Why does rain smell so good?
8/27/2021Who doesn't love the sweet, earthy smell of rain?
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A cardinal perched on a branch.
What's that sound? Birding by ear can be a rewarding way to grow birding knowledge
8/18/2021Looking for a challenge? Give birding by ear a try.
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A scarab beetle on a log.
What's the difference: Insects vs. arachnids
8/17/2021Insects or arachnid? There are a few key differences.
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A mosquito on a leaf.
Five fast facts about those pesky mosquitoes
8/9/2021Five facts about mosquitoes — perhaps the most hated creature on Earth.
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An American kestrel perched on a power line.
Nature curiosity: How can birds sit on power lines?
8/2/2021We all know to keep a safe distance from power lines, so how are birds and squirrels able to touch them without consequence?
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Lightning bugs lighting up the night.
Five fun facts about bioluminescent lightning bugs
7/16/2021Lightning bugs are a summer tradition, and there's plenty about these insects that is fascinating.
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A cottonmouth and a northern water snake side by side.
What's the difference?: Northern water snake vs. cottonmouth
7/15/2021Harmless northern water snake or venomous cottonmouth? In northern Illinois, there's no doubt it's a harmless water snake.
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A colorful sunset.
Just relax: How to enjoy your time in the great outdoors
6/29/2021Spending time outdoors is good for you, but it can be tough to find the time. Here's some simple and easy ideas for enjoying the great outdoors.
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A river otter.
Five fun facts about those playful river otters
6/25/2021Playful river otters were once endangered in Illinois, but they now live in every county in the state. Here's five fun facts about these semi-aquatic animals.
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A mussel in a stream.
Life under water: Freshwater mussels an indicator of healthy habitat
6/22/2021Freshwater mussels are an indicator of clean water, but as we have changed the flow of our rivers, their population has plummeted.
Current Headlines
Be a Trailblazer turns outdoor fun into a family affair
Liz Lyons of New Lenox has turned the Forest Preserve District’s Be a Trailblazer challenge into a fun-filled family tradition. From dancing in the rain to spotting tiny critters on the trail, challenge missions have become cherished memories.
Wild Science: Rare mussel search in Will County aids DuPage restocking effort
Forest preserve staff from Will and DuPage counties recently searched a Will County creek for rare mussels to support a native species restoration project. The collaboration could help reintroduce the ellipse mussel to DuPage waterways, where it has disappeared.