All about butterflies and moths Why do monarch butterflies shiver? They do this to increase their body temperature by warming their muscles so they can take flight., Photo Courtesy of Community Member Julie Bthanks Julie! Ever notice a monarch butterfly vibrating its wings? This isnt just random behaviorits a survival strategy called Shivering. Especially when temperatures drop, monarchs vibrate their wings to If You Touch a Butterfly's Wings, Can It Still Fly?