Can butterflies survive a freeze?
Although some species of butterflies will live through freezing temperatures, they do not fly when it is cold. If they are wet in freezing temperatures, they will die.
Butterflies are very active when temperatures range between 80-100 degrees Fahrenheit. At the other end of the spectrum, when temperatures drop too low, butterflies cannot contract the muscles that allow them to fly. Typically, temperatures have to be at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit to enable most butterflies to fly.
Most people choose to place the butterfly into an envelope or container and into the freezer. The butterfly normally dies within 10 or 15 minutes. It lowers the body temperature and, basically, the butterfly simply 'goes to sleep'.
First, the simple answer. For Monarchs and those that do not go into diapause as caterpillars, if the lows are above freezing and the day temperatures are above 65-70 F (18.33-21 C), they'll be fine. As cold-blooded critters, if temperatures drop too low, they'll literally freeze.
Do butterflies get cold? If so, how do they get warm? 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.
They are safe in the garage in one of my containers I use for rearing butterflies. Only thing I do all winter, is to spritz them with water about every two weeks to keep them from drying out. When they overwinter outside, they get moisture from the elements of weather.
Instead, carry it somewhere sheltered and dry like a hollow tree or woodshed and gently place it inside. Better still, gently transfer it to a dedicated insect hibernation box, where it will have the shelter it needs for the rest of the winter and also a means of escape come spring.
Unlike other butterflies that can overwinter as larvae, pupae, or even as adults in some species, monarchs cannot survive the cold winters of northern climates.
Butterflies don't sleep, they can rest at night or during the day when the weather is rainy or cold. They will rest with their eyes open, typically hidden in foliage and will often hang upside down from leaves or sticks. Scientists call it going into a state of quiescence.
We are often asked what to do with a hibernating butterfly in your home, garage or shed. The best solution is to rehouse the butterfly into a suitable location. Catch the butterfly carefully and place it into a cardboard box or similar, in a cool place for half an hour or so to see if it will calm down.
How do butterflies survive bad weather?
Butterflies look for shelter from rain when the skies start to grow dark. They cling to the undersides of leaves, climb deep into tall grasses, or tuck themselves into cracks of rocks or trees. This is also how they protect themselves from strong winds.