Moths can be just as brightly coloured and beautiful as butterflies. These misunderstood insects are important pollinators too. But what are the key differences been moths and butterflies? 

Moth ID guide  Butterfly ID guide

When are they active?

Butterflies: Generally diurnal (active during the day).

Moths: Primarily nocturnal (active during the night).

What do their antennae look like?

Butterflies: Antennae are club-shaped with a thickened end.

Moths: Antennae can be feathery or threadlike, without a clubbed end.

What's their resting posture?

Butterflies: Typically rest with their wings held together vertically over their back.

Moths: Usually rest with their wings spread out flat or folded tent-like over their body.

What are their bodies like?

Butterflies: Have slender, smooth bodies.

Moths: Often have thicker, furrier bodies.

How do they transform? 

Butterflies: Form a chrysalis, which is usually smooth and hard.

Moths: Spin a cocoon, which is often silk-covered and can be fuzzy or rough.

What colours are they?

Butterflies: Tend to have brighter, more vibrant colours but can also be brown and duller depending on the species and habitat it resides in.  

Moths: A range of duller, more camouflaged colours for night time activity but can be brightly-coloured like butterflies depending on the species.