The book surveys historical and contemporary literature on butterflies, then explains butterfly anatomy, physiology, and complete metamorphosis from egg through larva and pupa to adult. It provides life-history details illustrated by a case study of a red silverwing's egg-laying, larval molts, pupation, and emergence. Classification and family-group characteristics are outlined, with keys to major butterfly families and subfamilies. The final chapters discuss predators, defensive coloration and mimicry, chemical defenses, and behavioral strategies such as feigning death.