








Insect experts Cindy and John McKee will share their knowledge of dragonflies and damselflies as we stroll the preserve. They will gently capture, identify, and show us these marvelous flying insects. They will also likely share knowledge about butterflies and birds that cross our paths too.
Binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent and water are suggested. This is a great family event.
Contact nwilaudubon@gmail.com for more information.
This is a program designed to help grandparents and grandchildren experience the natural world together. Several activities will be offered promoting interaction in an outdoor setting. Activities will be most appropriate for grandchildren ages 6-11. Oakdale is three miles south of Freeport on Baileyville Road.
Please call Richard Benning (815-865-5279) to sign up for this event so it can be determined how many supplies are needed.
Join us for a fun, informative family friendly afternoon as we explore the Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve for the more than 34 species of butterflies that are found there.
There will be tours every hour between 1 and 5 p.m., with the last tour at 4 p.m. Free “Illinois Butterflies and Moths” pocket guides will be distributed while supplies last. There will be a shady rest area, bathroom, cold beverages, snacks, and information about pollinators.
The preserve is located about 3 miles southwest of Forreston in the southeast corner of West Grove and Freeport Rds. The parking lot is off of West Grove Rd. This event is free and open to the public. We hope to see you there!
If the weather is questionable, call Mary Blackmore at 815-938-3204 before 10 a.m. on July 27.
Baltimore Oriole
Icterus galbula
Have you been enjoying the calls of spring from your backyard birds? Tune in to this bird, the Baltimore Oriole. This bird will fill up your treetops with beautiful whistling calls.
To easily attract the Baltimore Oriole, all you need is a hummingbird feeder or a brightly colored fruit that is just as sweet and colorful as they are: oranges! You can hang oranges on your tree branches or trunks, or set them on your porch or feeder with grape jelly. If you look up high in the treetops in open woodlands, you will spot the male bird with his bright orange chest and belly, with his head all dipped in black.
* Sources include www.allaboutbirds.org.
Children, Nature and You Resources to help you give the children you influence the awe and wonder that only the natural world can inspire
Freeport Park District Information on all the Freeport parks
Freeport Public Library More than books on a shelf...visit the Freeport Public Library
Freeport Outdoor Experience Events located in Freeport and Stephenson County
Getting Kids Involved (The Cornell Lab of Ornithology) Includes bird information, tips, and more for kids and families
Jane Addams Recreation Trail Ride or Hike the beautiful Jane Addams Trail
Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots A program of the Jane Goodall Institute offering a variety of programs and resources
NASA Climate Kids to tell the story of our changing planet through the eyes of NASA missions studying Earth and provides games, activities, and articles that make climate science accessible and engaging for children
National Audubon for Kids provides resources for classroom curriculum, DIY activities, and bird activities for children at home
National Wildlife Federation Many family-friendly articles; Ranger Rick family magazine
Resource Guide Supplement to Last Child in the Woods Designed for parents, teachers, and community leaders to help them encourage children’s enjoyment of the great outdoors.
Severson Dells Nature Center Located near Rockford, IL.
Sierra Club Outdoors The program's goal is to give every child in America an outdoor experience.
World Migratory Bird Day Learn about the importance of migratory birds and how to celebrate birds any day of the year!
A fun adventure to go on with friends or family is to take a bike ride! Go for a ride in a park, around the neighborhood, or on a bike path nearby. Bike rides are a good way to have fun with friends and family outside while getting a little exercise!
Take a family trip out to Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve on July 27 between 1 - 5 p.m. to join us at our annual butterfly festival! At this festival, participants can join guides on butterfly tours, or look for butterflies on their own.
One fun activity to do in order to cool down this summer is to make popsicles! All you will need is a container (either small cups, an ice cube tray, or a popsicle tray), your favorite juice, and popsicle sticks. Pour your juice into your container of choice, then put your container safely into the freezer. Keep an eye on your popsicle, and when the juice is half frozen, stick the popsicle stick in until frozen completely. Take your popsicle out of the freezer and container, then enjoy with friends and family outside!
Check out our full calendar of activities, events, and educational opportunities. You're sure to find something to interest you. Please join us!
Events include:
For more details, see the current newsletter.
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Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024
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