Explore with Willy

Ospreys are impressive birds of prey that are built for catching fish. Learn all about these impressive birds.

Discover how caddisfly larvae use silk, sticks, stones and leaves to build underwater homes, and learn why these tiny bugs are important to healthy waterways.

The plains pocket gopher spends almost its entire life underground, digging long tunnels through sandy soil. Learn how this little mammal helps the environment, what it eats and how to tell its tunnels apart from a mole's.

Get the scoop on kayaking the preserves, including cool spots to check out, how to stay safe and what to do on the water.

The world's largest turtle lives in oceans far from Illinois, but it does share some traits with our local turtles. Learn about its amazing dives, jellyfish diet and how you can help protect this endangered species.

Meet Penny, a ball python who lives at Plum Creek Nature Center.

Think moths are just dull butterflies? Think again! Discover how to tell moths from butterflies and learn about some amazing Illinois moths.

Lightning bugs are disappearing because of light pollution and habitat loss. Learn why they matter and simple ways you can help them thrive.

Discover the fun of cloud gazing! Learn how to use your imagination, keep a cloud journal and spot clues about the weather by looking up at the sky.