Butterflies & Moths

Most recognizable group due to their vibrant colouring.

How to distinguish between a butterfly and a moth?

Easily distinguish between a butterfly and a moth based on their antennae. Butterfly antennae are simple and clubbed at the end while moths have feathery antennae. Butterflies are active during the day and moths mostly (with some exceptions) at night. Another way to distinguish butterflies from moths is that butterflies rest with their wings folded together upright while moths rest with their wings spread out.

Butterflies prefer open and sunny areas. They rely on specific host plants for their caterpillars (e.i monarchs rely on milkweed). They are highly attracted to red flowers.

Moths are attracted to flowers that are strongly sweet smelling and typically white.

Common butterflies found on Vancouver Island: Anise Swallowtail (Papilio zelicaon), Western Tiger Swallowtails (Papilio rutulus), Western Tailed Blue (Cupido amyntula), Western Meadow Fritillary (Boloria epithore), Morning Cloak Butterfly (Nymphalis antiopa), Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) and so many more!