when butterflies live a natural lifespan, their wings show the evidence! rips, tears and weathering are a common occurrence during a butterflies life caused by general wear & tear, breeding, Physical and behavioral adaptations to prevent overheating of the living wings of butterflies Nature Communications Did you know Monarch butterflies shiver their wings to stay warm? When temperatures drop, these delicate pollinators vibrate their wings rapidly in a behavior called shivering. This tiny motion generates heat, helping Butterfly Flight in Slow Motion! How thin, delicate butterfly wings keep from overheating Actin research shows how butterfly wings get their vibrant colors