96. Monarch Butterflies

Monarch butterflies are a scientifically unique, economically valuable, and culturally significant species. But due to climate change, habitat loss, pesticides, and more, Monarchs are under threat. In fact, just a couple weeks ago, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature officially declared the Monarch butterfly an endangered species. Today, we explore why Monarch butterflies are important, how they’ve reached endangered status, and what we can do to save them. With special guest Dr. Karen Oberhauser: Director of the University of Madison-Wisconsin Arboretum. The Sweaty Penguin is presented by Peril and Promise: a public media initiative from The WNET Group in New York, reporting on the issues and solutions around climate change. You can learn more at pbs.org/perilandpromise. Support the show and unlock exclusive merch, bonus content, and more for as little as $5/month at patreon.com/thesweatypenguin. CREDITS Writers: Maddy Schmidt, Ysabel Wulfing, Ethan Brown Fact Checker: Owen Reith Editor: Will Andronico Producers: Ethan Brown, Shannon Damiano Ad Voiceover: Will Andronico Music: Brett Sawka The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of Peril and Promise or The WNET Group.