Chief’s Letter

As I prepared this column, yet another deep chill settled into the Midwest. Even subzero wind chills don’t curtail all outdoor enthusiasts. Hardy souls bundle up against the brutal weather to continue hunting and trapping. Ice fishing becomes the sport of choice for many anglers. Hikers, photographers and wildlife watchers are out and about, seeking the solitude and beauty of the winter landscape. Carloads of Illinoisans head toward major rivers and lakes to witness the annual winter congregations of the nation’s bird, the majestic bald eagle. The bitter cold may actually enhance eagle viewing on the major rivers as they seek ice-free waters in which to fish.

How does wildlife fare when the arctic blasts hit? Author John Cole focuses on one species, the northern bobwhite, and how winter weather can impact this grassland game bird. This edition of OutdoorIllinois Journal also continues with our phenology series, featuring the seasonal activities of wildlife from February through April. In a second feature, a.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) has been in the news again this year. This contagious illness continues to pose a threat to the poultry industry and wild waterfowl, and may affect dogs, cats, horses, pigs and humans. Researchers with the Illinois Natural History Survey have prepared an article about avian influenza A with tips on how you can reduce the risk of infection to you and your pets. Bookmark this article as it also provides contact information for reporting sick or dead domestic/owner poultry or wild birds.

Despite the current weather, the promise of spring means many people are eyeing their landscape and making plans to get their hands dirty once the planting season hits. If you’re in a quandary about what to plant check out the article with suggestions for shrubs and small trees that will add fragrance and color to your landscape, and the promise of pollinators and birds you can expect to visit. If you’re looking for something on a larger scale, the article “A Prairie Imagined” showcases a project at Prairie Ridge State Natural Area to convert cropland to prairie. You also need to be alert to some species you should avoid planting! Learn about some of those in the story about the nine new invasive species now regulated in Illinois by the Exotic Weeds Act.

The fishing season is just around the corner and it is time to watch for the release of the 2026-2027 Fishing Regulations Guide. Whether from your computer, tablet, phone or a paper copy picked up at your local bait shop, check out the section covering recent updates to the regulations. There’s also a section on Family Friendly Fishing sites to consider if you are planning a family outing.

Speaking of families, are you looking for a way to entertain the youngsters during the winter months and build excitement for the day you can tell them “the fish are biting, grab your fishing pole?” The “Fishing on Land” article will provide you with some ideas for “fishing” without water.

We’ve prepared even more for you in this edition of OutdoorIllinois Journal. Check out the stories about turkey hunting in the Shawnee National Forest, what it takes to become an Illinois Conservation Police Officer, wildlife food habits, urban Canada geese, nuthatches and color variations in squirrels. There’s an article taking you on a ride with biologists conducting a Midwinter Swan Survey and another where you step into the field with researchers who share their first-hand account of tackling invasive bush honeysuckle.

Other storylines you can discover include the amazing assortment of fish living in the waters of Illinois. Take a moment to learn about the restoration of the tiny Illinois-endangered mottled sculpin at School Springs Wetland and the importance of the small and unassuming minnows you see in the shallows of the lake. Finally, if you’re ready for a challenge, pick up some tips for fishing for the massively strong and tough blue catfish.

OutdoorIllinois Journal is a collaborative effort led by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Divisions of Wildlife Resources, Natural Heritage and Fisheries, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration and the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center. Funding for OutdoorIllinois Journal was made available through Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Project W-147-T and the Fish Management Fund. 

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