Moths and Butterflies

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CEFR Level C1-C2

All butterflies are moths. Most people think that butterflies and moths are different types of insects. Scientists say that butterflies are specialized moths. Most people think that butterflies are colorful and moths are drab. The reality is that moths can be colorful. 

Comet moths live in Madagascar. They are yellow with red or pink markings.

The io moth lives in North America. It is yellow with red markings and a large black spot on each back wing. 

The rosy maple moth also lives in North America. This moth is pink and yellow. Its colors remind me of fruit sherbert.

The giant leopard moth lives in North and South America. It is white with black, blue, and orange spots. 

Some butterflies are drab. They are mostly brown or gray. 

The gray hairstreak butterfly lives in North and South America. It is gray with red or orange markings.

The hackberry emperor butterfly is brown with black, cream, and orange markings. It lives in North America.

The question mark butterfly lives in North America. The outside of its wings are gray and brown, but when it opens its wings, you can see orange with dark spots. 

What is the difference between butterflies and moths? It is easy to find lists of differences online. Unfortunately, these lists are not completely accurate. The truth is, the difference between moths and butterflies is what culture has decided. Scientifically, they are the same.