Butterflies and moths Butterflies and moths make up the order
lepidoptera, the fourth largest order of insects. These animals
are beautiful to observe and make a valuable contribution to the
ecosystem. From the grassland-dependent species of the Pacific
Northwest to the showy swallowtails of Central and South
America, the Xerces Society works to conserve butterflies and
moths throughout the world. The Red List of butterflies and
moths assesses the conservation needs of some of the most at
risk North American species and assigns each species a rank
based on its threat level. The Xerces Society administers a
yearly award for research into lepidoptera conservation, made
possible by a generous contribution in honor of Joan DeWind. The
Xerces Society advocates for lepidoptera conservation through
work with state and federal agencies, the use of the Endangered
Species Act and the development of educational materials. Visit
our butterfly conservation program.