Wonderful to be at the California Society for Ecological Restoration conference in Sacramento this week, presenting on our Monarch Butterfly conservation efforts and connecting with fellow ecologists.

Just finished Amphibious Soul by Craig Foster. Connecting with a wild species is rare and magical. I was lucky to experience a sperm whale peering into my eyes. A breathtaking moment - equal parts wonder and grief for what our species has done to this planet. 📷 Dr. Richard Smith.

Sometimes, the right decision is to turn around. It is hard to stop before reaching the summit, but the real adventure is the journey. #picodeorizaba

Quick weekend getaway to breathe the desert air, scramble the rocks, and gaze at the stars. #joshuatree

So pretty!

Only 9,119 overwintering monarchs were recorded in California this winter, down from over 200,000 in recent years and the second lowest ever. Habitat loss, pesticides, and climate-driven extreme weather are pushing them to the brink. 🦋 #SaveTheMonarchs #EndangeredSpeciesAct #Conservation