Join us as we talk with Sarah Zack, Pollution Prevention Extension Specialist, about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. Commonly found in a wide variety of consumer products like non-stick cookware, cosmetics, and cleaners, PFAS are an emerging contaminant that has recently become newsworthy due to its widespread discovery in waterbodies across the country. In this podcast episode, we’ll learn what PFAS are, where they are found, and how they can affect our health, as well as what’s being done to combat this hazardous pollutant.

Clam, Mollusk, Mussel, or Muscle? Let's unravel the mystery! Join us in this podcast episode as we delve into the captivating world of Illinois freshwater mussels. Whether you're gliding along a river or strolling by a stream, the remarkable underwater life beneath the surface may surprise you. These unsung heroes play a vital role in purifying our aquatic ecosystems and deliver Oscar-worthy performances in their struggle for survival. Discover how they interact with other aquatic species, including their selective preferences for fish companionship. The Spotlight crew will uncover the true identity of these organisms, dive into their fascinating reproductive processes, and explore ongoing research efforts in Illinois.

Join us as we chat with Kerri Taylor from Safe Electricity about tips for electrical safety month. We cover electrical safety tips for our homes and yards, as well as tips to talk about with your kids.

These Illinoisians and ecology-minded podcast hosts discuss the nuances of No Mow May and why it may not be the best fit for Illinois. Erin, Amy, and Abigail talk about the true goals behind No May May and how Illinois residents can achieve those goals when considering the ecology of our landscapes.

Check out our friends at Good Growing and their blog on No Mow May

Join the Spotlight on Natural Resources Podcast team for a Research Bite! Within each Research Bite segment, we delve into groundbreaking research conducted at University of Illinois, offering listeners exclusive insights into the innovative discoveries and advancements shaping the future of applied science. During this episode, we hear from the student Bird Strike Survey at University of Illinois, along with advisor Dr. Benjamin Van Doren. This group monitors bird window strikes on campus to identify buildings that pose the biggest threat to birds, in an attempt to study the reasons why those buildings are so deadly. Join us as we explore the latest research aiming to understand the fascinating intersection of bird behavior, architecture, and conservation.

Learn More!

• Learn more about the work of the UIUC Bird Strike Survey
• Chicago Bird Collision Monitors
• Cornell University Lab of Ornithology - Why Birds Hit Windows & How You Can Prevent It

Subscribe to our Naturalist News blog

Questions?
Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu
Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu
Amy Lefringhouse heberlei@illinois.edu

The cicadas are emerging, times two! Join us as we explore the upcoming periodical cicada emergence in Illinois with entomologist Kacie Athey. In this episode, we discuss the 17-year and 13-year life cycle of these insects, their impact on the local ecosystem, and what Illinois residents can expect during this natural event.

Visit these sites to learn more about Periodical Cicadas:
Community Science on Periodical Cicadas

• Cicada Safari Website
• Check out the Apps:
  • Cicada Safari for Google Play
  • Cicada Safari for Apple

Learning More about Periodical Cicadas

• 2024 Periodical Cicada Emergence with UConn
• Periodical Cicadas Fact Sheet
• Cicadas from Illinois Extension
• Blog Post: The Cicadas are Coming! Periodical cicadas in Illinois in 2024

Dive into the swirling world of tornado trends in Illinois with our latest podcast episode. Join us as we explore how a tornado forms, the recent patterns of tornado occurrences in the Prairie State, and what you can do to improve your resiliency to tornado hazards. Come away with a deeper understanding of this powerful natural phenomenon.

Learn more!
Tornado Trends (blog article)
Is Illinois a part of a new tornado alley? (blog article)
Subscribe to the All About Weather blog
Check out our Naturalist News blog

Questions?
Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu
Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu
Amy Lefringhouse heberlei@illinois.edu

Early spring is a wonderful time to view wildlife in Illinois. Woodcock, one of the earliest of the migrating birds, return to the state and start displaying to attract mates and set up territories. Mole salamanders will head to breeding pools, even when ice is still on. Crawfish frogs and spring peepers can be heard in full chorus on warm nights. Whitetail deer lose their antlers. This month on the podcast, Chris Evans joins us to discuss wildlife encounters to be had in early spring in Illinois.