Butterflies and moths are a group of insects called Lepidoptera. Like all insects, butterflies and moths have a head, thorax, abdomen, two antennae, and six legs. Additionally, moths and butterflies have four wings that are almost always covered by colored scales, and a coiled proboscis for drinking liquids such as flower nectar. Lepidoptera is derived from the Latin "lepido"= scale + "ptera" = wing. Of course there are exceptions; some moths have wingless adults and some primitive moths lack a proboscis.

General questions about butterflies and moths.

Questions answered by Dr. Paul A. Opler, Professor, Department of Bioagricultural Sciences, Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, and Emeritus Scientist, BRD-USGS