Oct 7, 2014 | root_ks8kzico

Leader Profile: Dr. Thomas Emmel

Dr. Thomas C. Emmel is the founding director of the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, and professor emeritus of zoology and entomology at the University of Florida. Dr. Tom Emmel Dr. Emmel holds a Ph.D. from Stanford University and has authored more than 400 scientific publications and 35 books. He is well-known as an international expert on tropical ecology, population biology, and Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). In addition to his extensive academic career, Dr. Emmel has also traveled to more than 45 countries and has led hundreds of natural history and scientific research ecotours across the globe. Dr. Emmel's trips to Mexico to observe migrating Monarch butterflies are especially popular, which is no surprise considering his reputation as one of the world's top experts on Lepidoptera. In this video interview by Kim Smith, he discusses the state of the Monarch migration today and why it is in crisis.

For details on upcoming trips with Dr. Emmel, visit holbrooktravel.com/expedition-travel/.

Up Next...

Photo of the Month: December 2025
Above: The critically endangered Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus) is a magnificent species native to the rainforests of Central and South America. These macaws heavily rely on the mountain almond tree
Holbrook’s 2025 Holiday Gift Guide
If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift for the world traveler or nature lover in your life — or want to drop a hint about your own wish list — here are a few ideas to inspire you!

Why choose Holbrook?

We’ve been
coordinating travel
programs since 1974.

Custom-Tailored Trips
Safety & Security
24/7/365 Service
Knowledgeable Staff
Expert Guides
Rich Content

Want to hear about upcoming trips?

Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest updates on upcoming trips, deals, and more. 

CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.