Hidden Oaks Nature Center

06/01/2026

Fishing line becomes a death trap for wildlife when it isn't disposed of properly. They become entangled in it, and the ensuing struggle to get out can be deadly or lead to serious injuries. We've seen it happen too many times.

You can help prevent these unnecessary deaths and injuries by properly disposing of fishing line. The Forest Preserve has installed monofilament recycling tubes at its most popular fishing spots, but you can also tuck it in your pocket or your tackle box until you can properly dispose of it.

05/28/2026

The animal kingdom's spring baby boom is in full swing all around us, and some of those babies are starting to get big! At this time of year, we often get inquiries about baby animals found alone, abandoned or possibly injured. Check out or do's and don'ts so you're prepared.

(Photo courtesy of Laurie Lasseter)

It's easy to do more harm than good.

05/24/2026

Tiny ticks can cause big problem. Learn how to protect yourself from tick bites before your next hike, picnic or backyard adventure.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you need to be aware of ticks and how to help prevent tick bites ad tick-borne illnesses.

05/21/2026

There are just two turkey species in the world. One, the wild turkey, lives across the eastern United States and might be familiar to you. The other, called the ocellated turkey, lives in only a small part of Mexico and Central America. It looks a little like a technicolor version of our familiar wild turkey.

The world is home to two turkey species, and most of us are pretty familiar with one of them. The other is called the ocellated turkey, and they look like a technicolor version of the wild turkey. 

05/19/2026

We didn’t let a little wet weather rain on our parade at our Adult Fishing Derby! Anglers pulled in some monster catfish during the event. The winner of the first session caught a 32-inch fish, and in the second session that winning fish measured 31.25 inches. Thanks to all who participated in this fun annual event.

Got little ones hoping to reel in the big one? Don’t miss our Kids Fishing Derby on June 27. More info >>> https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/news-events/event-calendar/kids-fishing-derby-2026

05/17/2026

Most bats have excellent vision, but they fly in what seem like erratic patterns to us because they are using echolocation to help them hunt for insects.

05/14/2026

Turtles have nothing on snails when it comes to creeping along at a snail's pace. That is where the saying comes from, after all. A snail was once clocked moving along at a speed of 0.0023 mph!

Turtles have nothing on snails when it comes to creeping along at a snail's pace, and while we may not give much thought to snails and slugs they are quite numerous around the world.

05/12/2026

Get hooked on fishing while learning basics like baiting a hook and putting tackle on the pole at our First Time Fishing programs. After learning some basic skills, anglers will also get experience casting along the shoreline with the guidance of an instructor.

First Time Fishing
When: Two sessions will be offered, from 5:30 t0 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23
Where: Hidden Lakes Trout Farm at Hidden Oaks Nature Center
Registration is required.

5/22/2026: Learn fishing basics, including putting tackle on a pole and baiting a hook, and practice your new skills at Hidden Lakes Trout Farm.

05/10/2026

Do you recognize this bird?

05/07/2026

Many people believe that snakes are slimy, but the opposite is true. They are actually cool and dry to the touch.

Another myth busted: Snakes are not slimy at all.