Similarities and Differences Between Moths and Butterflies

Behavior

• As a general rule, moths are nocturnal, meaning they are primarily active at night. Butterflies are diurnal, which means they are active during the day. Moths are attracted to light and are frequently seen communing around light bulbs. Both moths and butterflies make protective structures for their pupa. Moths make cocoons, which has a soft and silky covering. Butterflies, however, make chrysalides, which are hard structures.

Color and Pattern

• Most, but not all, butterflies and moths have complex patters on their wings. They may be striped, dotted or somewhere in between. Butterflies, however, have brighter colors than moths and their patterns are typically more noticeable from a distance. Moths are usually drab colors, such as brown and gray.

Wings

• Butterflies and moths both have large wings relative to their bodies. Their wings are frequently soft with a fine covering of tiny hairs. Butterflies hold their wings in an upright, folded together position when they are resting. Conversely, moths hold their wings folded out and draped over their backs. Moths tend to flutter their wings more rapidly than butterflies while flying, but butterflies can frequently be seen gliding in the wind or slowly flapping their wings.

Frenulum

• The most technical and scientific way to differentiate moths from butterflies is according to the existence or absence of a frenulum. Frenulums are tiny structures that join the base of the wings to the hind legs so that the wings can work together during flight. Moths have these structures and butterflies don't.

Eating Habits

• Both moths and butterflies subsist primarily on liquids that they suck through a strawlike structure called a proboscis. Butterflies tend to eat nectar and sap, while moths may eat decaying items. Moths periodically chew holes in clothing and linens in an attempt to extract nutrients.