Moths and butterflies, both part of the order Lepidoptera, exhibit several distinct differences. Butterflies typically fold their wings vertically over their backs when resting, whereas moths rest with their wings spread out flat or tented over their bodies. The antennae of butterflies are slender with a club-shaped tip, contrasting with the feathery or threadlike antennae of moths, which lack a club end. Butterflies are mainly active during the day, while moths are primarily nocturnal, though there are exceptions. In terms of life stages, butterflies form a chrysalis, a hard, smooth casing without silk, whereas many moths create a cocoon of silk for pupation. Butterflies generally have slender, smoother bodies, often brightly colored with vivid patterns, while moths tend to have thicker, fuzzier bodies with more subdued coloration, although there are vibrantly colored moths as well. Lastly, butterflies often pupate in exposed locations like under leaves or on branches, whereas moths usually choose hidden spots, such as underground or in leaf litter, for pupation. Despite these differences, both play crucial ecological roles.

Moths are attracted to light due to a phenomenon known as phototaxis, where they navigate by keeping a natural light source (the moon) at a constant angle. Artificial lights confuse this navigation system because these lights are much closer and brighter. This behavior is not universal among all moths, with some species exhibiting negative phototaxis, where they avoid light and prefer darker areas, such as cave-dwelling species like the Tissue Moth (Triphosa dubitata).

Certain types of moths can cause damage to your clothes and home. The most common culprits are clothes moths, specifically the case-making clothes moth (Tinea pellionella) and the webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella). These moths are attracted to natural fibers like wool, silk, cashmere, and fur. They are not actually the adult moths that do the damage; it's their larvae that feed on these materials, leading to holes in clothing and other textiles.Moths can also infest pantry items and cause damage in your home. The Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella) is known for infesting grains, dried fruits, nuts, and a variety of processed food products.