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.

Illinois is home to two weasel species: the long-tailed and least weasel. They are rarely seen but are fierce predators with long, slim bodies. Both change color in winter for camouflage and are active day and night. They hunt small animals, cache food, and leave behind paired tracks and twisted scat with bones or fur. Long-tailed weasels are more common and tolerant of humans, while least weasels are smaller and prefer quiet, open areas near water.

In the 1890s, the Clow family made lots of butter—over 2,000 pounds by 1880. Want to try it yourself? Shake heavy whipping cream in a sealed jar until it thickens and forms butter, leaving buttermilk behind. Cream has fat molecules suspended in liquid. Shaking smashes them together to form solid butter. Add seasonings and enjoy your homemade treat.

The plains pocket gopher is a hardworking, solitary digger that builds extensive tunnels underground, improving soil health by increasing aeration and water flow. Equipped with strong incisors, large claws, and cheek pouches, it efficiently digs, cleans, and stores food. Found in sandy soils, it eats underground plant parts and rarely surfaces. Its dirt mounds mark its presence, and its work helps support ecosystems and plant life across Illinois.

Mallards are the most common duck in North America. Males are colorful with green heads, while females are brown and mottled. Only females quack. Mallards are dabbling ducks, feeding at the water’s surface. Ducklings can swim hours after hatching and fly by 50 days. Some migrate, others don’t. They imprint early in life, but imprinting on humans can cause issues. Bread is unhealthy for them and can lead to deformities like angel wing. Their diet shifts seasonally.

Create a leaf skeleton to explore the hidden “skeleton” inside plants! Simmer sturdy leaves in water with Super Washing Soda, then gently brush away the soft parts to reveal the veins. This mimics how decomposers break down leaves in nature, leaving behind lacy structures. Let it dry flat, then use your leaf as a bookmark, suncatcher, or gift. It’s a fun way to learn how nature recycles and reveals its hidden beauty!

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.

Winter snow reveals signs of animal activity through fresh tracks. The best time to spot them is after a recent snowfall, especially overnight. Look in parks, yards, or along trails and observe the size, shape, and path of the prints. Clues may point to deer, squirrels, or ducks. Even without snow, tracks can be found in mud or dust. Following footprints and asking questions helps uncover which animals or people have passed through.