Introduction to Butterflies (Lepidoptera)

Like moths, butterflies are Lepidoptera, a huge group of insects. Some 120,000 species are known to man, but there is little doubt that perhaps the same number of species is still waiting to be discovered. All lepidoptera have rather large wings covered with scales and some species are without any doubt among the most beautiful creatures on earth. The name is derived from Ancient Greek 'lepidos' (scale) and 'pteron' (wing). A person who collects or studies this order is referred to as a lepidopterist.

For a very long time this order has been split up in two groups: butterflies and moths. Scientifically however the two groups do not exist. Since even lepidopterists continue to use this distinction Gardensafari uses it as well. One of the differences between the these groups is that the front and hind wings of moths are connected, which is not the case in butterflies. Butterflies therefore can operate the two pairs of wings separately. Another visible feature is the way the antennae are constructed. All butterflies have long, thin antennae with a little knob on top. Some moths also have a wirelike antenna, but it never has the knob on top! Most moths however have antennae which are more complicated: some look like combs, others like brushes and some are five times as long as the insects body. Another distinctive features are the wing patterns and coloration.

A vast majority of butterflies fly during daytime, but some fly during the night as well. Most moths are nocturnal animals, active during the night and resting during the day. Butterflies are often very colourful. Often the underside of the wing differs completely from the upperside. When butterflies sit on one spot for a longer period of time they have a habit of regularly opening and closing their wings. This is defensive strategy of butterflies that confuses their preditors. The enemies can't get a visual estimate of the body parts of its victim and thus do not know where to strike.