Butterflies do not have the ability to maintain an internal body temperature and are there "cold-blooded." They can increase their temperature by basking in direct sunlight. They generally require an air temperature of about 60 degrees F before they are able to fly.
Do butterflies get cold? If so, how do they get warm?
Did you find the answer to your question?
If not, browse all frequently asked questions.
If your question isn't answered on this site, you can submit a new question to our Lepidopteran expert Dr. Opler, who replies via e-mail at: pauloper(at)comcast.net. Please note: because Dr. Opler has recently "retired", he is frequently in the field working on butterfly research around the world. There will be a 1-2 week minimum delay in answering your questions.
