Oklahoma Today Podcast: April 8

Around this time of year is usually when Oklahomans get their first glimpse of the Eastern monarch butterfly, which makes migratory passes through the state in the spring and fall months. This year though, they might be harder to spot. As Oklahoma City Zoo postdoctoral researcher Emily Geest points out, the population total for the butterfly is currently the second smallest total on record and down more than 50 percent from the previous season? What has happened to this majestic insect. As today's guest, Geest breaks down what is happening to the monarch population, what the future looks like for the butterfly, and what we can do about it.

Also on this week's episode, the editors discuss their favorite parts of the springtime, and podvents give us something to . . . prawn-der. We hope you enjoy.

The Oklahoma Today Podcast is sponsored by Bravado Wireless.

Catch up with back episodes of the Oklahoma Today Podcast here.

Written By

Ben Luschen

Luschen joined the *Oklahoma Today*’ staff as Research Editor in 2021 and currently works as the magazine's Web Editor, managing the website and social media fronts. His past *Oklahoma Today* stories have ranged in content from the state's bee and quail industries to its vibrant art and music scenes. Not adverse to a road trip, Luschen is always on the lookout for the next big adventure. He is never out of opinions about the current state of Oklahoma City Thunder basketball.