In butterflies, look for distinguishing markings on the uppersides of those species that rest with out-stretched wings and on the undersides of those which rest with their wings folded up vertically. Butterflies fly only during the day. Their antennae are long and slender with clubbed tips. All lepidopterans share a magical change. This is a remarkable change from egg to adult, known as metamorphosis.
Butterflies look completely different at each stage of their lives.
The most important role for an adult is to find a partner for mating. Butterflies use their colors to find each other. Each species has its own select food plant. Eggs are small and laid singly or in rows, stacks or masses depending on the species. When they have mated and the female has laid her eggs, the adults die.