The wings of a butterfly are the primary means by which it is identified. When collectors mount butterflies the wings are kept spread so that they can be clearly seen.

The scales of butterfly wings serve the same function in flight as the feathers of a bird. They also give the wings their distinctive color patterns, many of which, like the colors of birds, are actually produced by the reflection and refraction of light. Butterfly wings look very impressive under superstage lighting, but, unfortunately, they are difficult to photograph this way.