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| Question Mark |
Latin
Name: Polygonia interrogationis |
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Genus: Polygonia Species: interrogationis |
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Comments: |
| The Question Mark's dark markings, irregular wing edges and cryptically colored undersides help the butterfly resemble a dead leaf when resting. Adults have a strong, rapid flight but frequently alight on overhanging branches, tree trunks or leaf litter. Wary and nervous, they are often difficult to closely approach. Males readily establish territories and aggressively investigate any passing objects. Both sexes visit rotting fruit, dung, carrion and tree sap. |
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Life
Cycle: |
Broods: |
multiple generations |
Egg: |
green, laid singly or in small groups on top of each other on host leaves |
Larva: |
gray to black with orange and cream stripes and spots and several rows of branched spines |
Host Plants: |
Sugarberry, American Elm, Winged Elm |
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Host
Plants: |
Host
Plants: |
Sugarberry, American Elm, Winged Elm |
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Habitat: |
Habitat: |
deciduous forests, moist woodlands, forest edges and adjacent open areas |
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Wingspan: |
Inches: |
2.25 - 3 |
Centimeters: |
5.7 - 7.6 |
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Appearance: |
Sexes: |
similar |
Compare: |
Goatweed Butterfly has pointed forewing apex and lacks white question mark on hindwing. |
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| Markings: |
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Above:
- seasonally variable; dark brown with orange coloration and dark spots on forewing; narrow lavender borders and irregular, jagged edges; winter-form has increased orange on hindwing and longer tails
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Below:
- seasonally variable; pinkish brown dead leaf appearance; hindwing has two, small median silvery spots that form a question mark
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Map Legend: Resident (green) | Stray
(Red) |
