

Temperature and Survival
A Balancing Act

Temperature conditions in the Monarch Butterfly sanctuaries in Mexico are key to monarch survival.

  • If temperatures are too cold the butterflies will freeze to death.
  • If temperatures are too warm the butterflies will burn their stored fat too quickly and starve to death.

Wait, does this make sense to you?

Journaling Question
People burn more energy in cold temperatures, trying to keep warm. Can you explain why monarchs burn less energy in cold temperatures?

Science Education Standards >>

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