vlinder

Vlinder is the Dutch word for butterfly, a group of insects in the order Lepidoptera. Butterflies are typically diurnal and are characterized by wings covered in tiny scales. There are about 17,000 described butterfly species worldwide, making them a diverse component of global ecosystems. They are closely related to moths, which are usually nocturnal and more varied in form.

Life cycle: Butterflies undergo complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid on or near host plants; larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves and grow; pupation occurs in a chrysalis; adults emerge with wings unfolded. The larval host plants and nectar sources shape species distributions and survival.

Ecology and behavior: Adults feed mainly on nectar, using a long proboscis; some species feed on fruit, sap, or dung. Wing coloration and patterns serve for camouflage, mate attraction, and warning. Many species migrate long distances; examples include the painted lady and, in some regions, monarch butterflies.

Habitat and distribution: Butterflies inhabit meadows, woodlands, gardens, and tropical forests; they require nectar sources and suitable host plants for offspring. They occur on every continent except Antarctica; in Europe, including the Netherlands, common species include the small blue, red admiral, painted lady, and peacock butterfly.

Conservation: Butterflies are sensitive indicators of environmental health; declines signal habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. Conservation measures include preserving diverse flowering meadows, reducing pesticide use, and creating habitat corridors to connect sites.