Explore with Willy

Any time of year is a good time to look for animal tracks, and they can actually tell us quite a bit about who left them.

What's the difference between a frog and a toad? Let's check the facts and meet our local toad species.

Plants are clever in many ways! One of the most impressive and diverse adaptations is how they spread their seeds.

Seagulls live all over the world and are common in Illinois. Learn why these smart birds love water, parking lots, and leftover food.

The temperature are rising, and the season is changing. Get outside to explore spring with all your senses.

Sea otters are amazing ocean mammals related to river otters in North America. Learn how they float, use rocks as tools, stay warm with thick fur and how conservation helped bring them back from near extinction.

It's time to get crafty! Gather together your favorite craft supplies to create a tiny handheld habitat for your favorite creature.

What purpose does our cold winter season serve? Do we really need winter? What does winter do for nature?  So many things.

We often see so many amazing things outside that we want to capture them with a photo. But if you are only ever looking up and out, you are missing out on some amazing views. Try looking down, way, way down. Not at the big things, but at the tiny, tiny parts of nature.