Voice of the Wild

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Wildlife is all around us. Join Voice of the Wild every Friday to explore a new wild song. From time to time, we’ll also do a deep dive into wildlife science, news, and natural history. Voice of the Wild is brought to you by the University of Illinois Extension natural resources, environment, and energy program.

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Latest Episodes

Episode 22: Morning Cicada – Voice of the Wild

Morning Cicada (Neotibicen tibicen). As the name suggests, this insect sings only in the morning. It begins its rattling broadcast just after the late summer sun has c...

/ 02:35/E22

Episode 20: American Goldfinch – Voice of the Wild

American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis). The American goldfinch’s jumbled song is a staple of warm mornings and hot summer afternoons. In the cold months they visit hangin...

/ 02:30/E20

Episode 19: Indigo Bunting – Voice of the Wild

Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea). While the Indigo Bunting is named for the breeding male’s exceptionally blue plumage, the female’s plumage is also exceptional; a ri...

/ 02:04/E19

Episode 18: Field Sparrow – Voice of the Wild

Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla). The Field Sparrow perseveres even when oppressive heat drives all the other birds to silence. Some remember the field sparrow’s song ...

/ 02:14/E18

Episode 17: Gray Catbird – Voice of the Wild

Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis). A mimid, this slate-gray bird copies from its neighbors and sings a mishmash of the whole neighborhood’s songs all from one spot...

/ 02:26/E17
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