Conservation Defense Butterflies have evolved in remarkable ways that help them avoid being eaten by birds, lizards, and other predators. We think of butterfly wings as being colorful, but many are relatively drab on the underside. Through this strategy, known as crypsis, they become nearly invisible to predators. Camouflage Bright colors and distinctive wing patterns can, however, be advantageous. The caterpillars of many species feed on toxic plants, and throughout their lives, their tissues are poisonous to predators.
Some butterflies simply fool their predators.
As caterpillars, they feed on nontoxic plants, and when they become adult butterflies, they are perfectly good food. Birds and lizards, who have learned to avoid bold warning coloration, leave these imitators alone.