As you may have noticed, I have a tendency to write about special days or holidays each month. It’s enjoyable to look for little (and big) things to celebrate while maybe learning a fun fact or two along the way. While I have already listed a few things about August, I just read that August is also National Parks Month. You can check out the National Parks website to see what parks are located near us in Illinois. 
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is actually listed with the National Forest Service, but has much to offer, just a few miles south of Elwood.
Last year, bison were introduced to this park and can sometimes be spotted as you drive by. However, they love to roam, as the old song states, so you may need to find a trail and have your binoculars handy. Actually, it’s “oh give me a home, where the buffalo roam…” (are you humming it right now??) This fact sheet, provided by the Forest Service, will help you learn the difference between bison and buffalo:
Several baby bison were born earlier this summer. Stop in at the visitors’ center to find out more about them, as well as other features, trails, programs and volunteer opportunities at this park. Here are some books we have available in the nonfiction section for basic bison information:
Perhaps you’d like to learn more about prairies. Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources:
or stop by to pick up these books and others before you visit the prairie:
Find flora, fauna, and facts galore as you explore the prairie ecosystem!
To be continued……