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Despite their very different reputations, moths and
butterflies appear to be very similar. They indeed
have a lot in common, both belonging to the taxonomic
order lepidoptera and having very similar anatomies.
However, there are a few factors that one may look
for in order to differentiate between the two.
Moths and butterflies are characterized by several
behavioral differences. Most notably, butterflies
are diurnal, or active mostly during the day, while
moths are nocturnal. Butterflies also fold their wings
along their bodies while at rest, while moths tend
to rest with their wings laid open and down across
their backs. Moths and butterflies use their senses
differently from one another, as well. While seeking
mates, butterflies use sight to locate and decide
between potential mates. Moths, on the other hand,
use only scent to choose mates. Butterflies are also
unable to hear, while moths have ears and are able
to detect sound.
Being active at different times in the day accounts
for some differences in appearance between moths and
butterflies. Butterflies have slender, streamlined
bodies with relatively thin scales, as they rely on
the sun for warmth. Moths, on the other hand, tend
to appear more "dense" because their bodies are stout
and hairy and their wings are covered with larger
scales than those of butterflies, keeping them warm
during cooler nights. Many butterflies are known for
their vibrant colors, while most moths have wings
of neutral colors that feature mundane designs, if
any, so that they will not be seen and attacked when
they rest during the day.
Several other anatomical distinctions differentiate
butterflies and moths. Butterflies use proboscises,
or long, hollow, straw-like structures, to obtain
nectar from flowers and feed. In contrast, moths have
no mouth-like structures, and do not feed during their
adult lives, living simply off of fat reserves from
their larval stages. Butterflies also have smooth,
"clubbed" antennae, or antennae with a small knob
at the end of each, while most moths have feathery
antennae. Moths may also have thin antennae similar
to those of butterflies, but without knobs on their
ends.
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