Monarch butterflies from the Western U.S. migrate to coastal California in late fall to escape harsh winter weather. Scientists count the monarchs that migrate each year. In past decades, over a million monarchs made the journey, but their numbers have been drastically decreasing. In 2021, the number of butterflies was up substantially from the previous year’s low of under 2,000 monarchs, bringing researchers hope that there might still be time to make a difference in protecting the insects from extinction. Listen to learn why monarch butterflies are threatened and what can be done to save them.
Story Length: 2:57
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December 22, 2021
2:09
Scientists have a new explanation for why it can be so difficult to swat a fly. According to research, body parts called the halteres help flies elude humans. These sensory organs are dumbbell-shaped evolutionary remnants of wings. Listen to hear about the experiment that led to this discovery and learn about the advantages that help flies escape swatters so effectively.
Read MoreJune 9, 2021
1:58
Bees are an important part of the planet’s ecosystem. They help to create food for humans and other creatures by pollinating plants. World Bee Day was established to celebrate the contributions of these small but mighty insects, and to raise awareness about the threats that are causing their populations to decline. Listen to learn more about the importance of bees, why they are at risk, and how one TikTok star is helping to save them.
Read MoreJune 3, 2021
4:39
Millions of cicadas – buzzing, red-eyed insects – are emerging from their hiding spots underground and climbing trees, where they shed their outer shells and try to mate. The dramatic event happens every 17 years, and entomologists, or scientists who study insects, are using the opportunity to learn more about cicadas and how they impact the local ecosystem. Listen to learn what scientists hope to discover about cicadas and how soft clay and superglue are helping one research team find out.
Read MoreSeptember 20, 2018
2:27
Monarch butterflies are in danger. In addition to their beauty, monarchs contribute to the ecosystem by pollinating wildflowers and by providing food for birds, small mammals, and insects. However, Monarch caterpillars depend on the milkweed plant for food and there are fewer and fewer milkweeds for them to eat. Listen to hear what conservation scientists recommend as a solution to this problem that many people can help to put into action.
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