Libyan
Butterflies and Moths
Macro Photography by Altaher Altabet
The Difference Between a Butterfly and a Moth
Of all the insect groups, we are probably most familiar with the butterflies and moths. We see moths fluttering around our porch lights, and watch butterflies visiting flowers in our gardens.
There is no real taxonomic difference between butterflies and moths. Both are classified in the order Lepidoptera. This order contains over 100 families of insects worldwide, some of which are moths and some of which are butterflies. However, there are some differences in physical and behavioral characteristics that are easy to learn and recognize.
As with most rules there are exceptions. For example, the luna moth is bright green and lavender, and not dull as suggested in the chart below. It does have feathery antennae, however, and holds its wings flat against its body. With a little practice, you should be able to recognize the exceptions and make a good identification choice.
Source of image: encyclopedia britannica
Differences Between Butterflies and Moths
Insect
Antennae
Body
Active
Color
Pupal Stage
Wings
Butterfly
rounded clubs on the ends
thin and smooth
during the day
colorful
chrysalis
held vertically when resting
Moth
thin or often feathery
thick and fuzzy
during the night
dull
cocoon
held flat against body when resting