Did you know tha the wings of butterflies and moths are actually transparent?The iridescent scales, which overlap like shingles on a roof, give the wings the colors that we see. Contrary to popular belief, many butterflies can be held gently by the wings without harming the butterfly. Of course, some are more fragile than others, and are easily damaged if not handled very gently. Both butterflies and moths belong to the order lepidoptera. In Greek, this means scale wing.
Did you know that butterflies taste with their feet?
Their taste sensors are located in the feet, and by standing on their food, they can taste it!
All butterflies have six legs and feet. In some species such as the monarch, the front pair of legs remains tucked up under the body most of the time, and are difficult to see.
Did you know that butterflies don't have mouths that allow them to bite or chew?
They, along with most moths have a long straw like structure called a proboscis which they use to drink nectar and juices. When not in use, the proboscis remains coiled like a garden hose.
Some moths, like the Luna moth don't have a proboscis. Their adult lifespan is very short, and they do not eat. They simply seek a mate, reproduce, then die.
The Asian Vampire moth pierces the skin with its strong, sharp proboscis and drinks the blood of animals.