Monarch Butterflies & Milkweed: Exploring Nature’s Connections

What connects monarch butterflies and milkweed, and why does their relationship matter? Inspired by Janet Echelman’s Butterfly Rest Stop, join Floyd Shockley, Collections Manager at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, for a fascinating exploration of these interconnected species. Drawing on his scientific expertise, Shockley will reveal the vital role milkweed plays in the monarch’s life cycle and spark a conversation about the delicate balance of nature and the importance of conservation. Floyd Shockley is the Collections Manager for the Department of Entomology at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, where he oversees the National Insect Collection of more than 35 million specimens. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia and specializes in insect taxonomy, systematics, and natural history. He is also actively engaged in public education and outreach.