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The Podcast Aquatic

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The official podcast of the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Gain new insights into the animals — even the human kind — living and working in one of the world’s largest freshwater-focused aquariums!

Episode #42: The Royal Majesty of Monarch Butterflies

When it comes to the most impressive migrations in the animal kingdom , there are a few obvious standouts: the pole-to-pole voyage of the Arctic Tern; the horizon-spanning race of Wildebeests across the Serengeti; the bear-dodging spawning runs of Chinook Salmon.

In the insect world, however, pretty much everything pales in comparison to the daunting voyage of Monarch Butterflies from Central Mexico to Canada and back again. Every year, these tiny, beautiful insects embark on this trip, which takes multiple generations to complete … except when it doesn’t. 

At the onset of fall, a single generation of butterflies completes the entire trip back to Mexico, a task that sounds laughably impossible for a featherweight insect with gossamer-delicate, three-inch wings. Yet they do it, every … single … year. 

The Tennessee Aquarium sits squarely in the middle of the migration route for the eastern population of Monarch Butterflies, making it a prime viewing location for these orange-and-gold beauties as they make their way northward each fall. In this episode, the Aquarium’s senior entomologist talks about Monarchs set people’s hearts a-flutter, the biological processes that allow them to undertake their unbelievable trip and steps society is taking to protect Monarchs from the greatest threat of all: us. 

Episode Cast

    Casey Phillips, host, senior communications specialist and butterfly adorant 

    Rose Segbers, senior entomologist

Upcoming Episodes

  • Gabbin’ about gar with Dr. Solomon David
  • How to volunteer at the Aquarium and why you should
  • Enrichment 101
  • Using art to bring nature to life

The Podcast Aquatic is made possible by support from The Tennessee Conservationist, the official magazine of Tennessee State Parks.

The Tennessee Conservationist

Printed sustainably on 100% post-consumer recycled paper with UV ink, each issue is filled with fascinating stories about Tennessee’s native species, rich history, and unique culture. It’s also your guide to exploring state parks and planning your next outdoor adventure.

Become a Tennessee Conservationist and subscribe at tnconservationist.org.

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