Explainer

Moths and Butterflies: What’s the Difference?

They may belong to the same insect family, but there's a lot that sets them apart. Here's a quick guide
Text by: Nisarg Prakash Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   November 21, 2023
Text by: Nisarg Prakash Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   November 21, 2023
1 min read
They may belong to the same insect family, but there's a lot that sets them apart. Here's a quick guide
Listen Listen to this article 15:34 min


Here are some interesting facts you will find in this explainer on moths and butterflies.

  • What is the difference between a butterfly and a moth?
  • What do a butterfly and a moth have in common?
  • Is a butterfly related to a moth?
  • How many types of moths are there?
  • How many types of butterflies are there?
  • What are skippers?
  • Are skippers butterflies?


About the Authors

Diviya Mehra

Diviya Mehra

is a graphic designer. She was the former art director of National Geographic Traveller. Her love for animals, travel and design has shaped her career through the years.
Nisarg Prakash

Nisarg Prakash

is a wildlife biologist working with Roundglass Sustain. A large part of my work before Sustain has been along streams and rivers, in the process trying to understand otters better