Snowy owls attract crowds in Chicago after being spotted at Montrose Beach, with birdwatchers and locals intrigued by their unusual visitation patterns.

Lincoln Park Zoo added two brown bears for the first time since 1979 and announced an African penguin chick hatched Oct. 1, a small but meaningful win for conservation in Chicago.

The Park District says the 1912 Burnham Building will be restored with federal support; work could start next spring pending environmental review.

A 4,270-year-old human skull fragment was found near the Whitewater River in Indiana, dating back to circa 2300 B.C. and undergoing respectful repatriation and site management.

Lincoln Park Zoo celebrates World Rhino Day, announcing the pregnancy of Kapuki, a 20-year-old eastern black rhinoceros, with the birth expected in early spring 2026. This is part of conservation efforts for the critically endangered species.

Chicago's Shedd Aquarium has introduced a new sea otter named Jade, chosen by a public vote, who is acclimating well and may become a surrogate mom to other otters.

Emy, a giraffe at Peoria Zoo, recovers after an eye surgery due to infection, with care from multiple veterinary teams. She adapts well, aided by the zoo's support.

Du Quoin State Fairgrounds offers a free fishing introduction for kids on July 8. Requires pre-registration; first 25 to sign up will participate. Older participants need a valid license.

Illinois officials encourage residents near Lake Bluffs Estates to test well water after finding 1,4-Dioxane levels might exceed safe limits, posing health risks.

A record-breaking 3,000 volunteers participated in the annual Chicago River Cleanup, clearing trash and invasive plants from over 150 miles of riverbanks, marking a historic turnout for the event.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is launching a pheromone-based treatment program against the invasive Spongy Moth, involving aerial dispersals and open houses for public engagement.

The "Wrigley Goose" from the Cubs' game now has a commemorative bobblehead available for purchase from the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum.

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago celebrates the birth of endangered species including Humboldt penguin chicks and other animals, highlighting conservation efforts.