Butterflies and Moths

Butterflies and moths have some of the same and some different characteristics:

• Many moths and all butterflies have a long, coiled tube to suck nectar that is inside flowers
• They have two pairs of wings covered with colorful scales.
• They undergo complete metamorphosis with their larvae called caterpillars or worms.
• The butterflies have thin abdomens; the moths have thick abdomens.
• The butterfly flies during the day; the moth flies at night.
• The butterflies' wings are vertically positioned at rest; the moths' wings are horizontally positioned at rest.

Some butterflies and moth migrate during the year.

Moths can be harmful by eating clothing and the larvae of butterflies and moths can destroy crops.

Butterfly Videos