birds

The haunting hoots of an owl piercing the night sky is a familiar sound to many. These mysterious calls often make us wonder – why do owls hoot in the first place? The reasons behind owls’ vocalizations are more complex than you may realize. Owls hoot for a variety of reasons depending on factors like … Read more

Among the over 10,000 species of birds that inhabit the diverse ecosystems of our planet, some stand out for their uniquely impressive beaks. Several bird groups have evolved elongated, specialized bills to help them expertly access food resources. The length and shape of these beaks match perfectly with the birds’ preferred diets. In this article, … Read more

Birds come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny hummingbirds to tall ostriches. One of the most distinguishing features across bird species is the length of their legs in proportion to their bodies. Long-legged birds have captured our fascination and can be found across diverse habitats, including lakes, beaches, grasslands, and wetlands. Their elongated legs … Read more

With their large, forward-facing eyes and almost supernatural hearing abilities, owls capture our imagination unlike any other bird. Illinois has eight species of these mysterious raptors, ranging from tiny screech owls to the impressive Great Horned Owl, with its five-foot wingspan. In this article, we will explore the owls commonly found in the Land of … Read more

Spiders form an integral part of many ecosystems, helping control insect populations and serving as an important food source for many species. Several bird varieties are known to regularly feast on these eight-legged creatures as part of their varied diets. While not all birds actively hunt down spiders, many opportunistically consume them when they happen … Read more