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? Try to answer this question yourself. Then see what the experts think. >> Science Education Standards >> Copyright 2006 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form