The white-throated sparrow, besides its namesake throat patch, can be identified by its striped head and yellow between the eyes and bill. Its distinctive song, “Poor Sam Peabody, Peabody, Peabody” can be heard in our area throughout the winter months. November 7, 2014 White-throated Sparrow Poor Sam Peabody. Peabody, Peabody. Now, I’ve never met this
Bird, Fly, White Throated Sparrow
October 31, 2014 Multicolored Asian Lady Beetles The multicolored Asian lady beetle is distinguished from native species by its great numbers, its highly variable coloration, and a convenient marking—a dark “M on the light-colored pronotum, or shield, that covers the insect’s head. Just in case you hadn’t noticed… The bugs are back in town. Make
Bugs, Insect, Ladybugs
October 24, 2014 Hammerhead Worms Bipalium adventitium, or hammerhead worm, is a predatory planarian with a preference for earthworms. The introduced species, native to Asia, recently was sighted at Delnor Woods in St. Charles. The great naturalist John Muir once wrote, “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to
Flatworms, Hammerhead Worm, Worm
Measuring a little over two inches in length, this hatchling brown anole was the surprise bonus in a local resident’s houseplant purchase. Native to the Caribbean, brown anoles have been introduced throughout Florida and now are making their way to other states as well. October 17, 2014 Anole Don’t you just love life’s little surprises?
Anole, Lizard, Reptile
October 10, 2014 Woolly Bears Instantly recognizable, woolly bear caterpillars are one of the insect world’s many ‘child stars.’ After pupation these familiar creatures lead quiet lives as Isabella tiger moths—medium-sized, drab-colored lepidopterans frequently drawn to porch lights on warm spring nights. “Where are they now?” It’s a phrase that seems custom-made for former child
Caterpillar, Insect, Wooly Bear
October 3, 2014 Arch Pits A leafy nest surrounded by a network of shallow tunnels are two hallmarks of a common but rarely seen local mammal, the northern short-tailed shrew. Earlier this week, a couple members of the St. Charles Park District naturalist staff headed out to complete some prep work for an upcoming school
Arch Pits, Environment, Pit
September 25, 2014 Cedar Waxwings A young cedar waxwing waits for its next insect meal to be delivered. Juvenile waxwings can be distinguished from adults by their streaky breast, underdeveloped crest and a lack of red wax deposits on the wings. Photo courtesy of Steve Muenz of St. Charles. Whether we realize it or not,
Bird, Cedar Waxwings, Fly
Gray and nondescript, the American dipper nonetheless delights birdwatchers with its nonstop antics. September 19, 2014 American Dipper I would wager that most folks have heard of the Big Dipper, the famous constellation. Shoot, even astro know-nothings like me can point it out in the night-time sky. I also believe people know about the Little
American Dipper, Bird, Fly
September 12, 2014 Barn Swallows A barn swallow rests on a lichen-covered branch. Barn swallows typically make their homes near humans, a trait that has helped them become the most prolific swallow species on the planet. Photo provided by Kane County Audubon president Bob Andrini. The neighbor’s kids were out the other day, chattering excitedly
Barn Swallow, Bird, Fly
It’s black walnut season, and squirrels everywhere are sporting walnut-eating grins. Pigments in the nuts’ husks create stains that range from deep yellow to dark brown, and last for days or even weeks. September 5, 2014 Squirrels N Walnuts We’ve all been there… That awkward moment when you realize there’s a poppy seed from the
Critters, Squirrels, Walnuts