The double-crested cormorant is a sleek, black water bird known for expert diving and fishing. Found across the U.S., it dives underwater to catch fish using webbed feet and sharp-hooked beaks. After fishing, they spread their wings to dry. You can spot them nesting in colonies at preserves like Lake Renwick. Once hunted, their population has since rebounded and is now stable.

Pollinators like bees and butterflies get the spotlight, but moths, beetles, and flies play vital roles too. Moths work the night shift, beetles have been pollinating since dino days, and flies help early blooms. Each has unique ways of spreading pollen, keeping nature thriving. So next time you see one, say “Thanks, pollinators!”

Moles are expert diggers that spend most of their lives underground. The eastern mole, common in Illinois, digs in soft, moist soil using strong, shovel-like front feet. They build shallow tunnels to hunt insects and deep tunnels for rest and raising young. Though rarely seen, moles help improve soil health by aerating and turning it over. Despite poor vision, their adaptations make them perfectly suited for life below ground.

Fishing is full of surprises so pack light stay patient and enjoy nature. Be quiet near the shore to avoid scaring wildlife. Look for fish near weeds rocks or logs. If you get snagged stay calm and try different angles to free your hook and always clean up your line. Switch techniques if fish are not biting and remember the real win is spending time outside even if you do not catch a thing.

Robin’s egg blue comes from a pigment called biliverdin in the female’s blood, not from food. Many birds lay blue eggs, and egg color comes from two pigments: biliverdin (blue or green) and protoporphyrin (reddish-brown). Egg colors may offer camouflage or sun protection. Robins lay 3 to 5 eggs and incubate them for 12 to 14 days. Hatchlings fledge about two weeks after hatching and learn to fly shortly after.

Hi I’m the wild strawberry also called Virginia or common strawberry found across Illinois in prairies meadows and woodlands I bloom in late spring with white flowers and grow sweet heart-shaped berries if conditions are right Loved by wildlife and pollinators I am one of the parent plants of the grocery store strawberry and part of the fragrant rose family.

The indigo bunting is a small, bright blue songbird seen in Illinois during breeding season. Only males are a vibrant blue, and their color comes from light scattering, not pigment. They sing sweet, repetitive songs and migrate up to 1,200 miles, using the stars to navigate. Females build low nests and raise the young. Though their population has declined, they remain common and can be found in shrubby areas across the eastern U.S.

Fishing is a fun way to enjoy nature. Beginners need some fishing line, a rod and a reel with a bobber, small hooks, a weight, nail clippers and bait in your tackle box. Practice by learning to tie a Palomar knot and casting gently. Watch the bobber for bites, then lift the rod to hook the fish. Use wet hands to handle the fish and remove the hook carefully. Be patient and enjoy the outdoors.