Comma
Image: Wenceslaus Hollar (Public domain)
Common NameComma
Scientific NamePolygonia c-album
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, parks, often near nettles
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, North Africa
Host PlantsCommon Nettle, Hop, Elm, Currant
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Caterpillars are spiny, dark with a white saddle, resembling bird droppings. Pupae are brown and angular, camouflaged as a withered leaf. Adults overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the unique ragged wing edges and the small white 'C' or comma mark on the underside of the hindwing. The cryptic underside helps it blend in with dead leaves.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by its distinctive jagged wing margins, appearing as if torn. The dorsal side is typically orange with black and brown markings, while the underside is mottled brown, resembling a dead leaf.
