Global climate change and its impact on organisms have been received extensive attention. Butterflies are one of the most susceptible species to global climate change. There is accumulating evidence suggesting that butterflies have already responded to global climate change by changes in their natural distribution, life cycle and diversity. Based on the references focused on long term investigation, we have reviewed the study progress in butterfly distribution patterns, phenology, morphology, population dynamics and species biodiversity in response to global climate change. Temperature rising and extreme weather are likely main factors which lead to changes in patterns of butterfly natural distribution and population dynamics. Finally, future research prospects on responses of butterflies to global climate change in China have been discussed.