Oreas Comma
Common NameOreas Comma
Scientific NamePolygonia oreas
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)48
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatConiferous and mixed forests, forest edges, clearings, often near streams
Geographic RangeWestern North America (Pacific Northwest)
Host Plantswillow, currant, alder, birch
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, developing into spiny larvae. Adults emerge and can overwinter, appearing early in spring and again in late summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive deeply jagged wing edges and the orange and black spotted upperside. A small white 'comma' mark on the underside of the hindwing (not visible in this dorsal view) is characteristic of the genus.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by its deeply scalloped and ragged wing margins, featuring an orange-brown upperside with prominent black spots and a dark brown border.
