Lepidoptera - The Butterflies and moths (cont.)

Wings are an important character for the identification of Lepidoptera. Numerous scales are usually present on the wings. These scales come off like dust when butterflies and moths are handled. Wing venation is often difficult to see unless the scales are removed first. Bleaching or clearing the wings is a somewhat complicated procedure involving several chemicals and is not practical to conduct in county extension offices. However, the general wing shape, color and markings conveyed in digital images will be helpful for identification.