Gray Comma
Common NameGray Comma
Scientific NamePolygonia progne
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, forest edges, clearings, stream banks
Geographic RangeNorth America, from southern Canada south through the eastern and central United States
Host Plantselm, birch, willow, aspen
Flight PeriodApril to October (two broods, overwintering adults emerge in spring)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as an adult. Eggs are laid singly or in small clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and variable in color, feeding on leaves before pupating into cryptic chrysalises.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic jagged wing margins and the bright orange upperside with black spots. The underside is mottled brown with a distinctive, thin, silver 'comma' mark on the hindwing.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with distinctive jagged wing margins. The upperside is bright orange with black spots and a dark border, while the underside is mottled brown, resembling dead leaves.
