Hickory Creek Preserve

06/10/2026

Pyrrhuloxias are closely related to northern cardinals, and the resemblance is quite striking.

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06/03/2026

Birds rely on plants like trees, shrubs and even grasses and flowers for both food and shelter. And when it comes to plants to attract wildlife, native plants are best.

If you are looking to attract a wide variety of birds to your yard, one of the best ways is to fill your landscape with native plants.

05/06/2026

Plains pocket gophers prefer sandy soils, so they are most common in the middle section of Illinois where these soils are more prevalent.

A furry critter tunneling around below our feet could be any number of animals. Plains pocket gophers are one that fits the bill, but they are often confused with moles.

05/01/2026

Get some fresh air and exercise while helping to make a difference in your community at one of your volunteer sessions. No experience is necessary, and all tools are required. At this session, crews will be working on brush control.

Volunteer Morning: Hickory Creek Junction
When: 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, May 10
Where: Hickory Creek Preserve — Hickory Creek Junction
Registration is required.

5/10/2026: Get some fresh air and exercise while helping to make a difference in your community by attending one or more of the Forest Preserve’s volunteer mornings.

04/29/2026

The arrival of orioles in Will County typically comes a few weeks after we start seeing hummingbirds. Once the orioles arrive, there are a few other birds we can expect to start popping in as well, including rose-breasted grosbeaks and indigo buntings.

Time to stock up on oranges and grape jelly. Baltimore orioles are on their way.

04/24/2026

It's your chance to name that tree.

04/23/2026

For those of you eagerly anticipating the arrival of ruby-throated hummingbirds, the wait is over! The first Will County sighting of these tiny birds has been reported, so you could start seeing them in your own yard any day now.

For those on you on hummingbird watch, there's good news to report: Hummingbirds have landed in the United States.

04/16/2026

We're hitting the trails for a group bike ride in honor of Celebrate Trails Day! Join us for a ride along just a small part of the Forest Preserve's trail system. The ride will be up 18.5 miles round trip, and we'll end with some time to socialize and enjoy non-alcoholic beers and seltzers donated by Athletic Brewing.

Celebrate Trails Day Bike Ride
When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 25
Where: Hickory Creek Preserve — Hickory Creek Junction
Registration required.

04/15/2026

Scared of snakes? Don’t be.

Most snakes are shy, not dangerous, and they play a vital role in keeping ecosystems balanced. From controlling pests to supporting biodiversity, they are quiet guardians of nature.

Next time you spot one, give it space and a little respect. You might just see beauty where you once felt fear.

(Photo courtesy of Robert Hafey)

Learn more about snakes and what you can do if they are causing problems around your property.

03/25/2026

If you want to spot chorus frogs next time you hear them calling, take your time and scan the water. It helps to have a pair of binoculars so you can get a good look. If they're calling, you should be able to spot the movement of their expanding throats.

(Photo courtesy of Eileen Donovan Capodice)

If you venture out into the preserves these days, there's a good chance you'll hear chorus frogs making a racket as they call out looking for a mate.