Are they on the flowers? If so what color are the flowers.
-Elisabeth

I'll try to find the name of them. We have them all over our acreage. I believe they are the "weed" that the redwing blackbirds like to pull together and build their nests on, about a foot off the ground.

I just noticed that they have a weed forum here on Gardenweb, so why don't you post your pic there too?
I've been looking all over the internet for the name of it, but can't find it anywhere. Sort of strange, considering there's so many of this "weed" out there! It must not be a nuisance. Mine pull out fairly easily, if they're where I don't want them.

Hi catherinet, they do pull out easy and there are always red wing blackbirds in this area

Just a guess...the leaves look like aster or fleabane to me. Take the link to see false aster. Loads of pictures on this site. Maybe you can find it here.
DD

Here is a link that might be useful: U of I Extension - Illinois Wildflowers