The black-crowned night heron is a short, stocky, mostly nocturnal wetland bird. Once common in Illinois, it’s now endangered in the state due to habitat loss. These herons hunt at night, except during breeding season where they hunt during the say. They breed in colonies and care for their young together. Though rare locally, they live on every continent except Antarctica and Australia. A large colony now lives at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, helping scientists learn how to p

As spring commences, turtles begin to emerge from winter brumation. Isle a la Cache lagoon is a great place to spot species like painted turtles, snapping turtles, red-eared sliders and map turtles. Walk quietly and use binoculars to see them basking in the sun. Watch for nesting turtles crossing roads in May and June during breeding season. Rare Blanding’s turtles, with bright yellow necks, can also be seen at Isle a la Cache Museum. It's always a good day when you see a tur

Eastern chipmunks are small ground squirrels found in eastern North America’s forests. Active during the day, they don’t fully hibernate but rest in burrows and emerge to forage on milder winter days. They use their cheek pouches to carry food and store it in underground caches. Chipmunks eat fruits, seeds, insects and more. They communicate with high-pitched calls and prefer to stay near their burrows to avoid predators.

Spotted turtles are tiny, hand-sized turtles with yellow spots on their top shell. They live in the eastern U.S.’s wetlands, including parts of Illinois. They eat insects, frogs and plants, and often bring their food into water to eat. These turtles like to bask on logs but hide from extreme heat. Spotted turtles are endangered in Illinois, so if you see one in spring, you’re lucky – just be careful as they may cross roads, especially during mating season.

Harpy eagles, relatives of bald eagles, are large birds found in the rainforests of South America. Known for their sharp talons and powerful wings, they are apex predators that hunt animals like monkeys and sloths. They mate for life and raise one chick every few years. Harpy eagles are Panama’s national bird, the symbol of biodiversity in Ecuador and the Colombian Air force’s emblem. Now vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting, conservation efforts aim to protect them.

A spring hike at McKinley Woods — Frederick’s Grove offers a slow-paced, sensory-rich experience full of wildflowers, birds and scenic views. The 1.35-mile Trail of the Old Oaks includes steep inclines and muddy spots, so boots are recommended. For a gentler route, try the Upland Trail. Visit nearby Kerry Sheridan Grove and Four Rivers Environmental Education Center for more trails, river views and interactive nature exhibits.

Our view of nature has changed over time. Once thought endless, wildlife began disappearing in the 1800s. Laws like the Lacey Act and Bald Eagle Protection Act helped, but the 1973 Endangered Species Act became a key tool to protect and recover species. It prevents harm to listed species and their habitats. Thanks to it, animals like the bald eagle made a comeback. The work continues to protect wildlife for future generations.

No paint? Make your own with dirt and water. Mix until it’s the right texture, then use paper, rocks, or sidewalks as your canvas. Try painting with your hands, sticks, or other objects. Compare mud from different places and see how it changes when it dries. When you’re done, just rinse it away and start again. Let nature be your art supply this spring.