In this episode, Kirsten talks with Monika Maeckle. Monika runs the Texas Butterfly Ranch, which is more a state-of-mind than a physical place. She is a writer, Master Gardener, pollinator enthusiast and has tagged countless Monarchs that pass through the famous Texas funnel on their journey south. Monika and Kirsten chat about the migratory path of monarchs, how their incredible journey turned into an inspiration during the Covid pandemic, and how we can all improve the plight of these beautiful butterflies.

Note, we briefly discussed the incredible rebound of the western population, which migrates along the California coast. The population had crashed to about 2,000 butterflies in 2020, but miraculously leapt back up to viability with almost 250,000 butterflies in 2021. No one is quite sure why and if the population will hold steady, as insect populations are notoriously volatile. Tune in to learn more.

For more information, check out:

• texasbutterflyranch.com
• https://texasbutterflyranch.com/2022/01/27/monarch-butterfly-population-volatile-unpredictable-with-a-ray-of-hope/

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We thank Betterbee for their sponsorship of today's episode. BetterBee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, BetterBee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

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Music: Original 2 Million Blossoms Theme, by Oscar Morante / Mooi Studios. Guitar music by Jeffrey Ott

2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast is a joint audio production of Protect Our Pollinators, LLC and Growing Planet Media, LLC