The buzz

Zombie snakes on the loose? Not really. These snakes are just playing dead to protect themselves from predators, and they pose no risk to humans.

Knowing the difference between wild parsnip and golden alexander could save you from a painful, burning rash.

You can help researchers learn more about ticks in Illinois by dropping them in the mail. 

The lovely luna moth is prized by many for its beauty. But there's more to these moths than just their outward appearance.

Birds don't hatch knowing how to fly. Much like babies learning to walk, learning to fly is a process for baby birds, one that often involves a lot of trial and error.

Squirrels and other rodents are incapable of vomiting. Why they can't is related to their anatomy and physiology.

One of most common birds in North America, the killdeer has a few tricks up its sleeve when it comes to protecting its nest from potential threats. 

As we prepare to declare war on dandelions, it's important to remember just how important these "weeds" are for bees.

Roly-polies are a rare bug that draws appreciation rather than ire, but most of us don't know much about these creatures beyond that they can roll themselves up into a ball as a defense mechanism.

The snapping turtle isn't hunted by many animals, but it does face many risks in the wild, including being hit by cars and having their nests hunted.