October is officially OAKtober in Illinois! Oak trees have deep historical roots in the Chicagoland area and are vital to our state’s ecosystems. They purify our air and water, help lower ambient temperatures, and support over 2,300 species, including more than 800 types of caterpillars! (Watch this video to learn more about OAKtober.)  

If you see a majestic oak while on one of your hikes this month, make sure to give it a hug, a high five, or even just a nod to show how much we appreciate all oaks do for us.  

This week, engage in some fun, oak-themed activities: 

• Play ID that tree! Bring along binoculars and use this Common Trees of the Chicago Region Guide to help you identify the trees you see on your hike. Keep a checklist of the species you spot, and try using apps like iNaturalist, which use image recognition to identify plants and animals. 

• Embark on a quest to discover different types of oaks in our region! Use the Know Your Oaks! Guide from The Conservation Foundation to help identify which oak is which. 

• Check out this Field Museum Prairies and Savannas Guide from the Chicago Park District to help you identify species of flowers, grasses, birds and butterflies. 

• Grab the kids and go on a Wildflower Walk or try this Hiking Scavenger Hunt. Mark down what you see and hear along your hike, such as birds, butterflies, leaves, acorns, etc. You can search for items as a team or make it a contest to see who can find the most.