Exploring Nature in Illinois: A Field Guide to the Prairie State - Paperback
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Illinois Nature Field Guide: Comprehensive Wildlife and Ecosystem Reference
Exploring Nature in Illinois delivers detailed coverage of 50 natural sites across the Prairie State, featuring full-color photography and expert naturalist insights. Authors Michael Jeffords and Susan Post, both retired Illinois Natural History Survey professionals, document preserves, forests, restoration areas, and parks throughout Illinois.
Detailed Site Coverage and Navigation
Each location includes maps and access descriptions for both easily reached and remote sites. The guide covers diverse ecosystems from War Bluff Valley Audubon Sanctuary's bird populations to Apple River Canyon's exposed bedrock and cliff formations. Readers gain access to natural areas hidden beyond urban development and agricultural land.
Wildlife and Flora Documentation
The field guide provides comprehensive detail on Illinois flora, fauna, and ecosystem characteristics. Full-color photographs capture wildlife, plant species, and landscape features across different regions of the state. The authors' professional backgrounds in natural history research inform accurate species identification and habitat descriptions.
Personal Field Observations
Diary entries from Jeffords and Post offer firsthand accounts of site visits, seasonal changes, and wildlife encounters. These observations complement the scientific data with practical insights for visitors planning their own explorations.
Practical Applications
This reference serves hikers, cyclists, students, scouts, and nature enthusiasts seeking Illinois outdoor destinations. The combination of detailed maps, access information, and ecosystem analysis supports trip planning for day visits and extended explorations. Morning walkers and weekend travelers will find sites suitable for various activity levels and time commitments.
Author Credentials
Michael Jeffords is the retired education/outreach director for the Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) and was staff photographer for The Illinois Steward magazine. Susan Post is a retired INHS research scientist and staff writer for The Illinois Steward magazine, and author of Hiking Illinois. They are co-authors of Illinois Wilds.
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Authors
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