NATURE VIRTUALLY EVERYWHERE

The natural world is loaded with interesting learning opportunities, and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County has over 20,000 acres to explore! Stay up-to-date with the latest happenings in the District, and have some fun with Naturalist Josh as we highlight the wonderful ways to enjoy our open spaces. Registration is not required for this free program.

Trees across Kane County are bursting with new foliage and now is a great time to explore the woodlands. Join Naturalist Ben for a livestream event from Elburn Forest Preserve and learn some tree identification basics. This informal, virtual hike will highlight the diversity of trees that can be found at the preserve. Registration is not required for this free program.

Do you love baby turtles? Would you like to celebrate and protect turtles and their disappearing habitats? The Forest Preserve District participates in a breeding program to help endangered Blanding's turtles thrive in Kane County. Join us to see a live Blanding's turtle release and learn from Wildlife Biologist Bill Graser about the ecology and conservation of the Blanding's turtle in Kane County. Registration is not required for this free program.

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Our local flora is diverse and the stories that go along with them are very interesting! Who is Jack and why is he in the pulpit? What is a "Wake Robin?" And why does Skunk Cabbage stink? Learn the names and colorful stories of some native wildflowers during this program. Registration is not required for this free program.

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With our forest preserves still open for your enjoyment, it's the perfect time to get out for a hike in our local natural areas and appreciate all that spring has to offer. In this all-ages program, Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick will share some of the best preserves for spring hikes, highlighting the ephemerals wildflowers you're sure to encounter along the way! Registration is required for this free program. Once you've signed up, we'll email you a Zoom invite with directions on how to join the webinar. We'll also be posting a recorded version of the webinar, if you can't make it to the live event.

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Greet the day at one of Kane County's beautiful preserves on this virtual hike with a Naturalist. Learn some interesting facts about the property, and then watch as we set out on the trail and enjoy the local flora and fauna in the early morning light. Registration is not required for this free program.

Take the first step toward a healthy lifestyle! Join Naturalist Jeanette for a fun and interactive livestream program from Burnidge Forest Preserve, as she leads you on a virtual hike to do some exercises and nature-based activities. Plan on participating in this program, for all-ages. Let us bring nature to you! Registration is not required for this free program.

Many animals create magnificent structures in which to live, store food, and raise their young. Learn about some of the animals that build these wonders right here in our Kane County natural areas. After viewing the program video, head into our preserves and look for examples of amazing animal architecture! Registration is not required for this free program.

Amateur astronomer and published author Bob King of Duluth, Minnesota, brings the night sky to life in this all-ages program. Bob will first explain how to locate night sky features using sky maps and digital apps. He'll provide an overview of the planets, stars and constellations of the summer sky and share exciting news about viewing a recently discovered comet. We'll open it up to take your questions at the end of the program. Prepare to be amazed! Note: For the best learning experience, please download and install the free Star Chart app, prior to class. Star Chart App for iPhone. Star Chart App for Android. Once you've registered, you'll receive a confirmation email with directions on how to join the webinar. We'll also be posting a recorded version of the webinar, if you can't make it to the live event. Registration is required. Click on the link below to register.

Enjoy some stories told by the St. Charles Public Library staff. Virtually explore the outdoors at Creek Bend Nature Center, and learn how you can create beautiful things with natural materials. This popular series moves online for the summer season, with each new program posted on the St. Charles Public Library Channel on YouTube. Registration is not required for this free program.