Structure of Butterflies

Butterflies are in the Lepidoptera family of insects, and share many similar qualities of other related insects. Butterflies are the adult stage of the family, with eggs, larvae(caterpillar), and pupa (chrysalids) being the other stages. Other advanced insects that share the same number of life cycles are flies, beetles, wasps, and caddisflies.

In the adult stage, butterflies have an exoskeleton comprised of head, thorax, abdomen, two pairs of wings and three pairs of legs.

Their wings are used for various functions in addition to flight. Wings are also used to attract mates, scare off preditors, and provide body temperature regulation. Although not visible by the naked eye, the wings are covered with overlapping rows of tiny scales. The forewings and hindwings both have veins which run through them, and constitute a major role in their temperature regulation.

If you want to learn more about the stucture of butterflies, and their other life stages, I suggest that you read through the various field guides that are available for your area. Knowing more about their makeup, will help you to understand their way of life, and assist in the overall knowledge of these wonderful winged creatures.