There are approximately 15 000 species of butterflies worldwide. A butterflies' life consists of four stages: egg, larva or caterpillar, pupa, and butterfly. The main purpose of the adult butterfly is mating and reproduction. Adult butterflies feed on flower nectar, liquids from rotting fruit, bird dung, and water from puddles. Some butterflies migrate to avoid cold weather. The lifespan of a butterfly can be from anywhere from a few days to 6-12 months. Many people's fear of butterflies results from movies.

- D. Borror & D. De Long | An introduction to the study of insects -