The spots of butterflies are adaptive features, that is, they are a result of adaptation. These spots indicate to predators that such butterflies may contain toxic materials and be dangerous to eat. This adaptation saves the lives of these butterflies. The reason behind these spots is the genetics: a particular gene cluster that causes these spots.
In a paired study on two butterfly species: Heliconius melpomene and Heliconius erato (links attached), scientists found that similar gene clusters may be responsible for the presence or absence of the spots.
The butterfly species that, through evolution, develops these spots will be able to save themselves from the birds (who will recognize any butterfly with spots as toxic and non-edible) and thus will survive. These spots are thus a great example of adaptation.
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