Although the word “hairy” isn’t itself inherently bad, it’s often used to describe something that is less than ideal. A hairy situation typically is one…
Hairy Woodpeckers
Kane County Certified Naturalists
Ready, set, net! Learn about local streams as well as other area ecosystems during the year-long nature education program for adults, Kane County Certified Naturalists. Good Natured: Kane County Certified Naturalists November 30, 2018 When was the last time you looked-I mean realllllly looked-at the shape and size of a tree bud? Or paused to
Winter Wrens
I don’t know about you, but I’ve never really thought of the TriCities, or even the greater Chicagoland region, as a hotbed for cave dwellers.…
Toads in Winter
We’ve all been there at one time or another: That awkward moment when you realize you’ve accidentally woken someone. Perhaps it was a phone call…
Hermit Thrush
Not long ago Hickory Knolls had the good fortune to host several hundred seventh graders from Thompson Middle School in St. Charles. Their objective was…
Butterflies in Winter
You’ve gotta admit, monarchs are the current darlings of the butterfly world. Markings that are easy to recognize, combined with a 2014 petition for endanger…
Shrews
Think your lawn or garden doesn’t have a resident population of insectivores? Have we got shrews for you! Shrews aren’t the sort of wildlife that…
Artie the Turtle
Ah, 1978. Things were sure were different then. Jimmy Carter was president. I remember this because I drew his portrait, and all those pearly white…
Beavers
When it comes to conversation, and newspaper columns, we all know that certain topics are sure to cause a stir. Politics is one, religion another.…
Woolly Bear Caterpillars
“Where are they now?” It’s a phrase that seems custom-made for former child stars-those little darlings who sang, danced or acted their way to fame…