MonarchPatch vs SMM2026 Conference

Monarch Patch is a comprehensive app designed for butterfly enthusiasts to meticulously track their rearing, observation, and sighting efforts. Users can monitor how their cohorts are progressing, identify predation or health issues, and evaluate the performance of specific milkweed species. The app provides deep insights into survival and success rates, turning personal observations into meaningful data. Beyond individual tracking, Monarch Patch showcases collective community efforts, allowing you to see how nearby patches are performing within your own zip code. The app offers robust basic functionality for free, with more advanced features available through paid tiers. Users can generate specialized "data cards" for patches, cohorts, and observations; these cards summarize your success and are designed to be easily shared on social media or printed for physical records. Finally, the app serves as a vital resource hub, offering users the latest news and updates, a directory of nearby nurseries with milkweed availability, monarch-related events, gear recommendations, and a library of guides and tutorials.

Join us at SMM2026, the 26th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals, taking place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from October 19–23, 2026. This landmark event marks the first SMM biennial conference in Latin America, bringing together marine mammal scientists, conservationists, researchers, students, and professionals from around the world. The conference will celebrate the region’s important contributions to marine mammal science and conservation while providing opportunities to connect, collaborate, share research, and shape the future of marine mammalogy.