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Educational Corner

Educational Corner: Common Green Darner (Anax junius)

May 29, 2026

Learn about the Common Green Darner dragonfly, one of North America’s earliest spring fliers. Recognized by its bright green thorax, long flight season and impressive migrations, this fascinating species thrives across diverse habitats. Discover identification tips, unique behaviors and interesting facts about this remarkable aerial insect in natural ecosystems today.

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Educational Corner: Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas)

Apr 30, 2026

Learn about the Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas), a small songbird known for its bright yellow throat and distinctive black mask. Discover its habitat, migration patterns, nesting behavior and unique song, along with key facts about this widespread North American bird and its role in local ecosystems.

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Educational Corner: Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus)

Mar 31, 2026

Learn about the Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), a common rabbit found across the eastern United States. Discover its habitat, diet, rapid breeding habits and survival traits, plus interesting facts about its expanding range and swift, zig-zag running used to escape predators.

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Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperti)

Feb 27, 2026

Learn about the Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii), a swift woodland raptor found across the United States. Discover its habitat, nesting habits, diet and range, plus fascinating facts about this backyard bird of prey known for agile flight and striking size differences between males and females.

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Educational Corner: Common Redpoll (Acanthis flammea)

Jan 31, 2026

Discover winter habits of Northern Cardinals in Chicago. Tips for feeding, observation, and supporting local urban wildlife and habitats.

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Northern Cardinal
Educational Corner: Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

Dec 31, 2025

Bright red northern cardinals light up Midwestern winters. Learn about their expanding range, nesting habits, songs and fascinating behaviors in yards and woodlands.

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White-breasted Nuthatch perched on tree trunk.
Educational Corner: White-Breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis)

Nov 28, 2025

A closer look at the White-breasted Nuthatch, its behavior, habitat and winter habits, plus tips for attracting these birds to backyard feeders.

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Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis)
Educational Corner: Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis)

Oct 31, 2025

Meet the sandhill crane—an elegant grassland bird with a vast wingspan, lifelong pair bonds and remarkable migrations that inspire wonder across our wetlands.

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eastern swallowtail butterfly
Meet the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly in Midwest Landscapes

Jun 30, 2025

Explore the life cycle and beauty of the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly native to the Midwest.

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Ohio Spiderwort
Educational Corner: Spiderwort

May 30, 2025

Tradescantia ohiensis, or spiderwort, blooms April–July with blue to white flowers that last a day each. It thrives in sunny meadows and prairies, growing 16–40" with grass-like leaves.

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Great White Egret
Educational Corner: Great White Egret

Apr 30, 2025

The Great White Egret, a tall white heron found worldwide, feeds in wetlands and nests in colonies. Once hunted for plumes, it's now a symbol of bird conservation and Audubon’s emblem.

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Juy 2026 Issue - Good Vibes, Great Outdoors

Read It Now

Natural Awakenings Chicago July 2026 magazine cover featuring fresh strawberries with the headline “Good Vibes, Great Outdoors” and stories on outdoor wellness, pickleball fitness, vibrant summer salads, sustainable backyard water features and exploring Indiana Dunes.
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