The long-eared owl’s namesake “ears” on top of its head are used for camouflage and communication, but not for listening. Its actual ears are located…
Owl Ears
Viceroy Butterflies, the Monarch’s Mimics
Think you’re seeing monarchs mating? Look again! These two butterflies are viceroys, distinguished from monarchs by the dark line across the hindwing and by a…
Rescued Swifts Fly Free
This fledgling chimney swift was among a group of seven rescued swifts that recently joined a Geneva, IL, flock. Soon these birds and thousands of…
Cooper’s Hawks Leave the Nest
This young Cooper’s hawk can be identified by its immature plumage—a brown back, white breast with crisp brown streaks—as well as its light-colored eyes. Adult…
American Kestrels: Part Two
With assistance from wildlife biologists from the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, American kestrel chicks in the Kane County nest box program are weighed,…
American Kestrels! Part One
American Kestrels are small falcons that favor grasslands and other areas with low vegetation. These colorful birds, sometimes mistaken for mourning doves, survey their hunting grounds from prominent posts like tall poles and utility lines. Good Natured: American Kestrels! Part One July 15, 2022 Well, it happened again the other day. There I was, sitting
Common Yellowthroat
As shown in this stock photo, the male common yellowthroat bears unmistakable plumage that includes a black mask trimmed on top with white. A denizen…
Virginia Rail
Described as bigger than a robin but smaller than a crow, the Virginia rail is a marsh inhabitant that is considered uncommon in our area.
Bird Flu
A chickadee gathers insects, including a caterpillar and a crane fly, to feed itself and its brood. Native plants and reduced pesticide use can help…
The Killdeer – An Amazing Mom!
A killdeer warns a potential threat away from her nest by displaying the orange bands on her tail. She as well as her mate will…