Comma
Image: Waleria Marrené derivative work: Wieralee (Public domain)
Common NameComma
Scientific NamePolygonia c-album
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)47.5
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Ulmus spp., Humulus lupulus, Ribes spp.
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species overwinters as an adult. Larvae are spiny and camouflaged, feeding on a variety of host plants before pupating into a chrysalis that resembles a dead leaf.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature for identification is the deeply scalloped or jagged outline of its wings. The underside of the hindwing typically bears a small white 'C' mark, which gives the butterfly its scientific name.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by its distinctive jagged wing margins, appearing orange-brown with black spots on the upperside and a cryptic, bark-like underside.
