The more you know

Trees communicate underground using a fungal network called the mycorrhizal network. Through it, they share signals and nutrients with each other, warn of danger, and support young trees. Fungi benefit by receiving sugars from trees. Older “mother trees” help younger ones grow and even pass on nutrients when dying. This hidden network shows how forests quietly work together to thrive.

The polar vortex is a mass of cold, low-pressure air circling the poles. When it’s unstable, cold Arctic air can push south into places like Illinois, causing extreme cold. This happens when the polar jet stream weakens. Though the term gained recent popularity, it’s been around since 1853. The National Weather Service issues wind chill advisories at -25°F and warnings at -30°F, with wind chill showing how cold it feels by factoring in wind speed and air temperature.

Turtles may not talk or hug like humans, but they use body language to communicate. They stretch their necks, wave claws, blink, and even touch noses to show affection or dominance. Without vocal cords or ears, they rely on subtle movements and vibrations to express feelings. Some actions, like head bobbing or claw fluttering, can show interest, warning, or aggression. Watching closely, you might spot a silent turtle conversation.

Thundersnow is rare thunder and lightning during a snowstorm. It needs instability, moisture, and a lifting mechanism in the atmosphere—similar to summer storms. It often happens near large bodies of water like the Great Lakes. Snow dampens sound, so thunder is quieter and harder to hear unless nearby. Thundersnow signals heavy snowfall and fast accumulation, often occurring when air temperatures are near freezing and pockets of warm air rise, creating an electrical charge.

Needle ice forms when moist soil pushes water to the surface through capillary action, and the cold air freezes it into delicate ice columns. This happens when the ground is above freezing but the air is below 32°F. The right mix of moisture, soil texture, and temperature creates this rare sight. Look for it after a wet day followed by a freeze, especially on bare soil or trails. Listen for the crunch underfoot—you might find this magical ice up close.

A disease called white-nose syndrome, caused by the fungus P. destructans, is killing millions of hibernating bats in North America. It spreads in caves and causes abnormal behavior and death. While humans can’t catch it, we can spread the fungus. There’s no cure yet, but you can help by avoiding closed caves and reporting dead bats.

In winter, large bald-faced hornet nests become visible in trees. Built anew each spring by a single queen, these papery nests house up to 300 hornets by summer. Though they can sting multiple times and damage wood, hornets also pollinate plants and control garden pests. If the nest isn’t causing harm, it’s best to leave it alone — bald-faced hornets play a vital role in the ecosystem.

Eyeshine is the glow you see in some animals’ eyes at night, caused by a reflective layer called the tapetum lucidum. It helps nocturnal and crepuscular animals like deer, foxes, and cats see better in low light. Eyeshine can appear in different colors depending on the animal and angle. Humans and many daytime animals don’t have this feature. So next time you’re out at night, watch for those glowing eyes.