Across North America, millions of monarch butterflies embark on an extraordinary migration spanning thousands of miles. Yet, behind this natural wonder lies an urgent conservation story as their populations face steep declines.
What can be done to save this iconic species, and how can their survival inspire us to protect biodiversity on a broader scale?
Welcome back to Rewildology, the nature podcast that explores the human side of conservation, travel, and rewilding the planet. I’m your host, Brooke Mitchell, conservation biologist and adventure traveler.
In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Rebeca Quiñonez-Piñón, PhD, Program Director of Climate Resilient Habitats & Monarch Recovery Strategist at the National Wildlife Federation.
Rebeca is the perfect person to teach us about monarch butterfly conservation. Not only is Rebeca a fantastic scientist, but she’s from Mexico and grew up close to the butterfly’s overwintering grounds, giving her a unique perspective on the significance of monarch butterflies for local cultures.
Throughout the conversation, Rebeca and I discuss the natural history of monarch butterflies and how their complex migration is tracked across three nations.
Rebeca also shares insights into the possible listing of monarchs as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act, a huge topic in the conservation sphere right now, as well as some community-based conservation efforts she’s involved with, the challenges posed by climate change and agriculture, and what we as individuals can do to protect pollinators in our own backyards.

Learn More About Today’s Sponsor, SEE Turtles
Before we dive in, I want to thank today’s sponsor, SEE Turtles. SEE Turtles connects people with sea turtles in meaningful and impactful ways while supporting community-based conservation efforts. Their work aligns with the heart of Rewildology, and I’m thrilled to have them as a sponsor. If you’re inspired by this conversation and want to take action, check out seeturtles.org/rewild to learn 5 ways you can help marine ecosystems – from joining a conservation trip to saving a baby turtle and even fighting the illegal trade. Plus, Rewildology listeners can get $50 off a conservation trip by using the promo code “rewild.”

Alright, let’s jump in! Here’s my conversation with Rebeca from the National Wildlife Federation.
Episode Transcript
Disclaimer: Transcripts are AI-generated, unedited, and may contain errors.