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Shedd's At Home on the Great Lakes exhibit features a Sturgeon touch experience.

At Home on the Great Lakes

From sand dunes to shorelines views, the Great Lakes are among the world’s most precious natural resources. More than 3,500 plant and animal species—some found nowhere else on the planet—also call the region home.

  • A lake sturgeon on the habitat floor at Shedd Aquarium.

    TOUCH

    Reach into the cool water to feel the armored skin of a fish little changed from the days of the dinosaurs.  

  • A marbled salamander, its skin glossy with moisture, rests contentedly on a patch of wet moss.

    LOOK

    From sirens to salamanders, see some of the amphibians that find moist habitats in local back yards, parks and forest preserves.   

  • Lamprey are snake-like invasive fish with round, suction-cup like mouths that latch on and rasp at their prey with many small, hooked teeth.

    DISCOVER

    From ravenous Asian carp to toothy sea lampreys, meet some of the invasive species posing challenges to the Great Lakes.  

We’re all at home on the Great Lakes

From sand dunes to shorelines views, the Great Lakes are among the world’s most precious natural resources. If you live in the Great Lakes basin, you’re one of the 40 million people who depend on the lakes for drinking water, employment and recreation. More than 3,500 plant and animal species—some found nowhere else on the planet—also call the region home. By meeting our animal neighbors and understanding the environmental issues that affect them, we can help protect the Great Lakes for wildlife and people. 

American Bullfrog

Ruddy duck