North American Butterflies

The butterflies of North American belong to the order Lepidoptera. Lepidoptera are one of the most diverse and widespread insect orders, with well over 150,000 species worldwide.

Fossil evidence suggests that Lepidoptera may have been around for over 200 million years (50 million or more for butterflies). The precise timeline of Lepidoptera evolution remains an active area of research. The order can be divided into two main groups:

1. Rhopalocera (Butterflies)

Butterflies are diurnal (active during the day), and are known for their brightly colored wings and graceful flight. The North American butterfly families are highlighted below.

2. Heterocera (Moths)

Moths are typically nocturnal, often with feathered or comb-like antennae. Their bodies are often more robust and hairy compared to butterflies, and they usually rest with their wings spread flat. This informal group includes the vast majority of Lepidoptera species.