Evening Event!
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific
First Wednesdays Speaker Series
Wednesday - Sept 2
Lecture - Cocktails - Music
Western Monarch Butterflies
Presented by Melissa Burns
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 1980’s due to climate change, habitat loss, and pesticide use.
Join us 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, guest 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.
Speaker of the Evening
Melissa Burns
Melissa 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.
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If available you may purchase at the door for $10.
Buy On-line for $8!
