Butterflies and moths are the movie stars of the insect world. Most other six-legged creatures seem drab compared to these colorful, graceful aviators.
Though they may look fragile, butterflies and moths are actually quite tough—and not totally harmless. The distinctive colors of some warn predators that these pretty creatures are poisonous to eat. The acrobatics of others keep them away from hungry jaws and beaks. And in the caterpillar stage, some hungry species eat up valuable food crops or even whole forests.
On the other hand, butterflies and moths bring each spring to life by pollinating flowers. And by changing from homely caterpillars into lovely adults, they are symbols of hope and rebirth.
