Beavers can hold their breath for up to 15 minutes—much longer than humans. Beavers are naturally adapted for their aquatic lifestyle. They slow their heart rate, redirect blood to vital organs, and have high levels of myoglobin, a protein that supplies oxygen for aquatic mammals to use while under water. This lets them stay submerged longer. Though impressive, elephant seals can hold their breath for much longer, staying underwater for up to two hours.

Fishing spiders do not spin webs and can walk on water thanks to surface tension and hunt using vibrations. They fish for prey like minnows and tadpoles and can also hunt insects on land. Fishing spiders can breathe underwater using air bubbles trapped by special hairs. Though large and venomous, they’re mostly harmless to humans. They use their powers to survive, not for fun!

Make a yarn turtle craft using three green-colored Popsicle sticks tied together in a snowflake shape. Wrap yarn around the center to form a mound, then continue winding yarn around each stick in a circle. Use 2 to 4 yarn colors for variety.

A caller to Plum Creek Nature Center mistook a western fox snake for a rattlesnake after it hissed and rattled its tail, putting on a defensive show. These nonvenomous snakes live in grasslands, prairies and farm fields, where they help control rodent populations. They mimic rattlesnakes by shaking their tails in dry vegetation and may also hiss or release a musky smell. Instead of harming it, the caller released the snake - great news for their farm!

Named for their fearlessness and bravery, bold jumping spiders, Phidippus audax, are the most common jumping spiders in North America and can be found in forests, prairies, farmland, yards, and in homes. Their venom is not dangerous but can irritate the skin. Rather than spinning webs, these stealthy daytime hunters rely on their sharp vision to stalk prey and drop draglines (strands of silk) to secure themselves onto a surface. Juveniles can take up to six molts before becom

Snakes are unique in shedding their skin all at once in a process called ecdysis. They do this because their skin doesn’t grow with them, so it becomes too tight or worn out. Shedding also helps remove parasites. Younger snakes shed more often while adults shed a few times a year. Before shedding, their skin may appear dull and their eyes cloudy. They start the process by rubbing against rough surfaces. The shed skin can reveal scale patterns and even the snake’s species.

Native to North America, the eastern cottontail rabbit is the most common cottontail and the only wild rabbit that lives in Will County. They are herbivores and crepuscular, and can be found in open, grassy areas. Baby cottontail rabbits are called kittens and will reach their full adult size 6 months after birth. Their fur coat changes color throughout the year, shedding its light-brown summer fur to a thick, gray winter coat. Cottontail rabbits help regulate populations and

Meet Penny, a curious ball python at Plum Creek Nature Center! Kids can make their own spiral snake craft inspired by her using paper, scissors, and decorations. Penny is a constrictor with shiny, copper-colored scales and uses her tongue to smell. This fun activity teaches colors and patterns, mimicking real snake markings. Add a forked tongue and hang your creation! Learn more with a one-hour Nature Play Day video all about snakes.