Andres Ortega

Andres Ortega is the Forest Preserve District's aquatic resources supervisor. He holds a B.S. and M.S. in biology from Northern Illinois University. Based at the Urban Stream Research Center, he leads a team of aquatic professionals in supporting recreational fisheries, restoring aquatic habitats, and augmenting populations of freshwater species, including mussels, Hine’s emerald dragonflies, and Great Plains mudbugs. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking and biking the local preserves with his two sons.

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.

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

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