A butterfly playing in a field of flowers or weeds is a beautiful sight, but if you look closer, it might not even be a real butterfly! Most people are unaware that some moths are as brilliant (or more so) than butterflies. The moth is a member of the Lepidoptera family, as are butterflies.

The Madagascan Sunset Moth, or Chrysiridia rhipheus (for example), is amongst the most stunning and stylish Lepidoptera members. This moth, which is native to Madagascar, is highly sought after by collectors. These moths, which are primarily black, also have iridescent markings in green, yellow, red, and blue. The colours of the Sunset Moth, unlike other moths are not pigments. They are the result of optical interference. Many people mistakenly think they are butterflies because they fly at daytime, unlike most moths which are night-fliers.

The Comet Moth is another moth that is native to Madagascar. The wings of this moth change from a creamy yellow-green color to a neon green, with an intense red tail. It’s very easy to tell the difference between the female and male Comet Moth. The male has a much longer tail, up to a half-foot long. Due to habitat decline, the Comet Moth has been added to the species list.

Cinnabars (Tyria Jacobaeae), which are also daily fliers, are often mistaken as butterflies. It is native to Europe, Asia, and has bright red wings on the back with a black borderline. The forewings of this butterfly are grey with a streak of red towards the front, and two spots along the edges. Cinnabar is now being introduced in North America to reduce Ragwort’s outburst.

Actias Luna (Actias Luna), a moth that is not a common flier, can be mistaken as a butterfly. This moth is pale green with eye spots. It’s one of the most elegant moths to be found in North America. In 1987, it was featured on the first class stamp of the United States.

The moth is a fascinating creature that many people are unaware of. Many moth species are as beautiful and fascinating as their butterfly relative. Next time you see a beautiful butterfly, take another look. It could just be a moth.