Andres Ortega

Andres Ortega is an ecologist in the Natural Resources department at the District. He has a B.S. and M.S. in biology, both from Northern Illinois University. As the District's invertebrate ecologist, he works to protect and restore beneficial insect populations in DuPage County, and control those that are threats to human or environmental health. At home he likes to share his love of insects with his two sons by searching for butterflies and dragonflies on hikes in the local nature preserves.

March 31, 2021

I Spy Early Spring Insects

Andres Ortega

The warmer weather brings more people outside after a long, cold winter. But they’re not the only ones that emerge with the warmer temperatures.

December 11, 2020

Lessons From 2020

Andres Ortega

The events of 2020 have been a great lesson for many aspects of my life. At the top of the list, I have gained an even greater appreciation for the work I do to help the natural...

August 21, 2019

Help Wanted: Pollen Patrol

Andres Ortega

Summer is a busy time in DuPage County, but many of the area’s busiest residents are so small they almost go unnoticed, even though they’re performing one of the most important...

July 19, 2019

Help Wanted Spotting Rare Bumble Bee

Andres Ortega

In ecology, timing is everything. While some organisms can be easily found through much of the growing season, others can only be seen for a short time and have peak viewing times...

May 23, 2019

Protect Yourself from Ticks While Outdoors

Andres Ortega

We need to talk. It’s going to be awkward, it’s a subject we’d all like to avoid, but it’s best for everyone if we just put it out there: ticks are all around you.

March 20, 2019

Points to Ponder Before Raising Monarch Caterpillars

Andres Ortega

Full disclosure: I’ve always liked insects. As a child I found them intensely interesting and spent hours just watching them walk, feed and fly. As an adult I came to realize...

November 6, 2018

The Plight of the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee

Andres Ortega

I think it’s just human nature to run in the opposite direction when we see a big black-and-yellow insect flying our way. But when it comes to the rusty patched bumble bee, our...

July 3, 2018

Helping the Hine's Emerald Dragonfly

Andres Ortega

Being a parent is one of the most difficult — but most rewarding — jobs I have ever had.

You watch your children grow from someone in need of constant attention and care until,...

Andres Ortega

Subscribe to Our Blog