Eastern Comma
Image: Miami U. Libraries - Digital Collections (Public domain)
Common NameEastern Comma
Scientific NamePolygonia comma
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black, blue
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, parks, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantselm, nettle, hop, hackberry
Flight PeriodMarch to November
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are spiny and feed on various deciduous trees and plants; adults typically overwinter and emerge in early spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive angular wing shape with slightly ragged margins, and the upperside's orange-brown coloration with a pattern of dark spots and lines.
Description
This butterfly features angular, somewhat ragged-edged wings, with an upperside that is predominantly orange-brown adorned with irregular dark spots and markings, and a hint of blue near the forewing apex.
