Butterflies and moths belong to the same insect order, Lepidoptera, and share many similarities, but there are some differences between them:
Antennae: Butterflies usually have thin and long antennae with clubbed or swollen tips, while moths generally have feathery or filamentous antennae, though this isn’t always the case.
Wings: When at rest, butterflies typically fold their wings vertically up over their backs, while moths usually spread their wings out flat. However, there are exceptions, and some moths do fold their wings.
Color: Butterflies are often brightly colored and have intricate patterns on their wings. Moths can be colorful too, but many are duller in color, with patterns that help them blend into their surroundings.
Activity: Butterflies are primarily diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, while moths are generally nocturnal, active at night. However, there are crepuscular species of both butterflies and moths that are active during dawn and dusk.
Pupation: Butterfly pupae (chrysalises) are usually smooth and have a hard shell, while moth pupae (cocoons) tend to be wrapped in silk and may have some other materials incorporated, like leaves or twigs.
These are general differences, and there are exceptions. Some moths, for example, are brightly colored and active during the day, blurring the distinction between the two groups.