As the summer unfolds around Chicago, local residents are experiencing and sharing unique wildlife encounters in outdoor spaces.
This week’s Fish of the Week highlights a remarkable photo from Joe Szafoni, which shows a largemouth bass devouring a northern pike.
Szafoni’s brother-in-law captured the moment in a lake near the Chain O’Lakes in Lake County, demonstrating the bass’s hunger in a striking display of nature.
After freeing the pike, his brother-in-law released it, uncertain about its fate after such a gripping encounter.
The Fish of the Week feature continues to celebrate the wild stories and photographs emerging from the local outdoors, appearing in the two-page outdoors section of the Sun-Times Sports Sunday.
Submissions can be made via email at [email protected] or through social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Bluesky under the handle @BowmanOutside.
In addition to fish stories, the Wild of the Week section brings attention to intriguing avian sightings in urban settings.
Paul Botts recently reported seeing a large red-tailed hawk while walking his dog in Grant Park, specifically near Lake Shore Drive and the Museum Campus.
His close encounter with the hawk, which allowed him to come within 12 to 15 feet, marked a memorable first in his years of walking in that area.
Botts noted that while he has previously spotted an osprey and smaller raptors like American kestrels, this experience was special, particularly in the city landscape.
Concerned about the hawk’s future, he pointed out the wealth of food sources like rabbits and squirrels, but noted the potential difficulty in finding a mate.
The Wild of the Week section underscores the everyday adventures and photographic moments shared by those who appreciate the wild side of Chicago.
Another highlight in the outdoors recap is from John Henry, who captured a stunning photograph of a buck in velvet at LaBagh Woods, marking this week’s Buck of the Week.
The Buck of the Week Unplugged segment celebrates sightings of majestic bucks around the Chicago area.
Similar to the previous sections, submissions for Buck of the Week can be made through the aforementioned channels, allowing enthusiasts to share their experiences with the community.
In the DALE’S MAILBAG section, a reflection from Darryl Shelton shares his awe for nature as he observed a tiny spider spinning a web on his porch.
Shelton took a moment to appreciate the intricate work of the small creature, pondering how such a tiny being can produce such fine webbing.
His thoughtful message reminds readers of the everyday miracles present in the natural world around them.
For those interested in connecting with fellow fishing aficionados, a series of fish gatherings are scheduled.
On Tuesday, July 8, Capt. John O’Connor, known for his involvement with Ness Charters and Salmon Unlimited, will host a gathering at Thornwood Restaurant & Lounge in Wood Dale at 7 p.m.
Then, on Thursday, July 10, Ken “Husker” O’Malley will speak at Riverside Fishing Club, taking place at the Berwyn Moose Lodge 424 at 6:45 p.m.
Fishing enthusiasts should also note the ongoing Kankakee River Fishing Derby, which runs through Sunday, July 6.
A reminder for hunters: Monday, July 7 marks the final day for the first lottery of fall shotgun turkey permits.
Additionally, the third lottery for firearm and muzzleloader deer permits will commence on Friday, July 11.
Safety courses are available as well, including sessions scheduled for July 17 and 19 in Newark, August 9-10 in Morris, and additional dates in Bonfield and Wilmington later in August.
These events and stories represent just a slice of the vibrant outdoor life flourishing around Chicago, inviting more participants to engage with nature.
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