The Aquarium of the Pacific has announced “an engaging evening with biologist Melissa Burns,” to learn about monarch butterflies on Wednesday, Sept. 2, beginning at 7 p.m.
Every winter a quiet magic unfolds along the California coast. Tens of thousands of western monarch butterflies cluster together in eucalyptus, pine, and cypress groves to endure the chilly months. Yet, this remarkable phenomenon is diminishing, as their populations have plummeted by nearly 95% since the 1980s due to climate change, habitat loss, and pesticide use.
Join the Aquarium for an engaging discussion with biologist Melissa Burns on monarch butterflies. Discover the value of pollinators and the prevalent threats they face. Explore the known and unknown aspects of overwintering monarchs, monarch migration, and the innovative technologies used to help researchers and conservationists learn more about how to protect and recover this iconic species.
Learn about the conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding monarchs and other native insect pollinators for these vital species and how you can get involved.
Following the presentation, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy live music, crafts and conversations in our art gallery. Cocktails will be available for purchase at the event. The program will also be live-streamed, recorded and photographed for those unable to join in person.
Burns is the Western Monarch Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Center for Pollinator Conservation. She lives and works in Sacramento, CA and partners with others across the West and nationally to support collaborative monarch and native insect pollinator conservation and stewardship by bridging the gaps between applied science and land management.
In her role, Melissa supports delivering science, managing data and leveraging resources, and developing durable partnerships. Melissa has 20 years of experience in wildlife and habitat conservation. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and Environmental Biology from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Biology from University of Texas at Tyler. She is passionate about preserving intact ecosystems, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring equitable access to nature.
The Aquarium of the Pacific’s First Wednesday’s series focuses on animals, nature and conservation efforts. The events bring scientists, authors, and other experts into its Honda Pacific Visions Theater for an illustrated talk paired with meet and greets and cocktail/social hours with music and crafts.
The programs are best suited for high school and college students, young professionals, and adults of all ages.
Tickets for the Sept. 2 event, from 7 – 9 p.m., cost $8 each for advance online reservations and parking is $6 for the first 2.5 hours in the parking structure located directly across from the Aquarium.
To RSVP, call (562) 590-3100. This event is recommended for ages 14+ (not suitable for young children) and is sponsored by Courtyard by Marriott, Long Beach downtown.