Why do butterflies have colors?

Question

How do butterflies get their colors?

Answer 1

Butterflies r colored due to the colored scales present in their wings. if u touch butterfly wings u can get a powdery substance in ur hands, these substances r nothin but the scales that butterflies posses. The evolutionary origin of these colored scales r still unclear but hav u noticed tht most of the insectivorous birds don't go after butterflies ! It might be due to butterfly's colors (by evolition birds might hav developed an habit not to chase colored flies because they r very diffict to catch)

Answer 2

Genetics mainly which I imagine would be determined by natural selection, environment, etc... Multiple factors.

Now if you're not curious what colors butterflies are born with, but HOW there pigment appear. I would check out the link below.

Answer 3

The colors of butterfly and moth wings may serve several purposes.  Colors are often used in courtship, so that male and female butterflies recognize each other as the correct species.  Bright colors may also serve to warn birds or other predators that a particular butterfly, such as a Monarch, is bad-tasting.  Other butterflies and moths, although perfectly edible, may have colors that "mimic" the bad-tasting species and thereby gain protection for themselves.  Finally, certain color patterns may help the butterfly or moth blend into its background and be protected from birds or other would-be predators by "background resemblance."