Butterflies and moths are both part of the family of insects called Lepidoptera. They have similar life cycles. They start out as a caterpillar, enter a metamorphosis stage and come out a flying insect with beautiful long wings looking quite different than their pre-cocooned self. Butterflies have a clubbed antenna and fly during the day. They are not considered destructive. Moths are often considered pests, lack the club at the end of their antenna, and generally fly at night.