BUTTERFLIES and moths make up the second largest order of insects called the Lepidoptera. This order comprises over 160,000 species worldwide, most of which live in tropical forests. The name Lepidoptera means ''wings with scales'', which means their wings are covered with tiny flat scales which overlap like the tiles on a roof. Usually each scale has a single colour which contributes to the beautiful patterns found on the wings. These colours are easily recognised by their enemies and act as a warning which can prevent them from being eaten. In general, butterflies can be easily distinguished from moths. Most butterflies have the following characteristics: they fly during the day; their bodies are usually slender; they settle with wings held vertically over the bodies, and their antennae aregenerally slender and enlarged at the tip into a tiny club. Most moths fly at night though there are also ones that fly during the day. Their bodies are stout. When they settle, their wings hold flat over their bodies. Their antennae are commonly feathery or are thin, long and pointed. When you see these amazing insects, have a look at the lovely patterns on their wings and try to identify the difference between butterflies and moths.