#DYK ruby-throated hummingbirds are highly territorial? Despite being small and charming, they can be fiercely protective of their food sources and eggs, attacking other birds (including those of their own species) that enter their territory. (Photo courtesy of Mourad Riad)

Discover how we use autonomous recording units (ARUs) to monitor wildlife and capture audio calls from secretive species in our preserves! #FPDWC #SoundsOfNature #Wildlife

This great blue heron has inspired us to take a peaceful morning stroll around the preserves. Plan an early visit to your local forest preserve and start your day with nature! (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Catigano) #Herons #ReconnectWithNature

The majestic sandhill crane has existed for over two million years, ranking it among the oldest living bird species. (Photo courtesy of Darek Konopka) #Birding #Cranes #Wildlife #WillCoutny

Now through August 24, stop by Plum Creek Nature Center to experience native plants, wildlife and prairie landscapes through the lens of local artist Carrie Carlson in “Prairie Reverie” art exhibition for free! #FPDWC #NatureArt #InspiredByNature

Field bindweed is a perennial with white or pinkish, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom from June to August. It’s drought-tolerant, adaptable to many soil types, and has an extensive deep-root system — making eradication difficult. (Photo by Anthony Schalk) #WildflowerFacts #DYK

This frothy bubble isn’t human saliva — it’s the home of a spittlebug nymph! Made of plant sap, air and secretions from the insect’s abdominal glands, this bubbly shelter doesn’t harm the host plant. (Photo by Glenn Knoblock) #Bugs #FPDWC #Insects

Red-winged blackbirds have multiple vocalizations, including their classic territorial song: “conk-la-ree.” Both males and females also “check” or “chirp” to communicate with one another. (Photo courtesy of Joe Viola) #Blackbirds #Birding

Meet Theodore — a cross between an eastern box turtle and an ornate box turtle. His story serves as a cautionary tale about pet ownership and wildlife conservation. (Photo by Anthony Schalk) 📍 Read more here: bit.ly/4lmwEcw #Turtles #Conservation #FPDWC

Learn how a little bit of color theory can better attract pollinators to your garden! #Wildflowers #Gardening #WillCounty

A rare treat! American avocets, usually found in the west and along the Gulf Coast, have been spotted in Will County. These waterbirds prefer shallow wetlands and forage for aquatic invertebrates and seeds. (Photo courtesy of Maura Carlisle) #RareSighting #Waterbirds #Avocets

Enjoy a fun-filled evening of bites, brews, giveaways and family activities at our last Fun & Food Trucks event this summer on Friday, August 8 at Hickory Creek preserve – LaPorte Road access! No registration required. (Photos by Anthony Schalk) #FPDWC #Events #WillCounty

Happy National Moth Week! Butterflies may get more attention, but moths are just as incredible. Celebrate these creatures by learning five fun facts about them. (Photo courtesy of Laurie’s Trail) 📍 Read here: bit.ly/3IxQoeV #NationalMothWeek #SnowberryClearwing

Check out this beautiful capture of a couple of deer enjoying the calm of an early morning sunrise. (Photo courtesy of Jen Radwan) #NaturePhotography #Wildlife #Deer

Can you ID this juvenile songbird? Here's a hint: they are part of the blackbird family and have flute-like calls. (Photo courtesy of Lili Duan) #BirdID #Birding #WillCounty

#DYK a Japanese beetle’s shiny green and bronze armor isn’t the only thing that draws others in? These invasive pests release odors on any vegetation they feed on, attracting even more beetles to gather, feed, and mate on the same plant. (Photo by Glenn P. Knoblock)

This great blue heron waits patiently for the perfect time to catch its next meal! As the largest heron in Illinois, it’s striking to see them wade through the waters of Will County's preserves. (Photo courtesy of Darek Konopka) #Herons #Wadingbirds #WillCounty #FPDWC

A clash of the wetlands! This sandhill crane clearly wasn’t pleased with the egret’s arrival. (Photo courtesy of Todd DnB) #WadingBirds #Cranes #Egrets #Wildlife

Meet one of Will County’s fruit-loving birds - the cedar waxwing. They can survive on fruit alone for months, even forming red, waxy tips at the ends of their inner-wing feathers due to their berry-rich diet. (Photo courtesy of Joe Viola) #Birding #CedarWaxwing

Summer is the perfect time to cast a line and unwind! Head to your local preserves and enjoy a day of fishing with family and friends. #FPDWC #ReconnectWithNature #Recreation #Fishing