Who am I? Can you identify these Illinois critters? T. Trimpe
Only the males of my species “sing” or make a noise that attracts females. As an adult I usually don’t eat, but am a tasty treat for songbirds. I can remain in the ground as a nymph for as many as 17 years. People often mistakenly call me a locust. Do you know who I am? Cicada
I am the world's-largest land-dwelling salamander. I live in prairie ponds, marshes, lakes, and woodland ponds. I am somewhat of a chameleon as my colors and patterns can change throughout my lifecycle. When I am young, I am definitely spotted, but my spots turn to bars (like a tiger) or irregular blotches. I am the Illinois state amphibian. Do you know who I am? Tiger Salamander
I can live years and grow to be the size of dinner plates. I don’t have external ears but use my shell (carapace) to conduct low-frequency vibrations to the middle ear. I can dive up to 2 meters and stay under as long as an hour. I may be “painted”, but I’m not artwork. I am the Illinois state reptile. Do you know who I am? Painted Turtle