Question Mark
Image: Internet Archive Book Images (No restrictions)
Common NameQuestion Mark
Scientific NamePolygonia interrogationis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, parks, suburban areas, often near water
Geographic RangeEastern North America, extending into parts of the Midwest and Southwest
Host Plantselm, hackberry, nettle, hop
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly or in small stacks on host plants. Larvae are spiny and feed on leaves, while pupae are cryptic, resembling dead leaves or twigs. Adults can overwinter.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive jagged wing edges and the small silver 'question mark' or comma on the underside of the hindwing (though not visible in this dorsal view). The forewing apex is pointed and the margin concave.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by its deeply jagged wing margins, with an upperside typically orange-brown adorned with black spots and irregular markings.
