Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis)
This cryptic colored and uniquely shaped creature has the perfect arrangement. It is one of the few butterflies that overwinter as adults. Hiding in cracks and crevices of wood, they remain inactive through the cold months. Their colors help keep them hidden and safe. This is also a butterfly that doesn’t prefer nectar but will drink it occasionally, the favorites of this individual is tree sap, overripe fruit, and animal scat. The scat supplies proteins that the butterfly cannot get from nectar. You may see this unique flier in cooler temperatures before the other butterflies are able to fly, an exciting sight in any garden.
Family: Brush-footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae)
Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)
Average Wingspan: 2 1/4 in. to 3 in.
Habitat: Wooded areas, suburbs, parks
Similar To: Eastern Comma
Plants That Attract This Butterfly
Host Plants: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants: (What is this?)
Note: Always check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to make sure a plant will grow in your area.
Butterfly Life Cycle
Butterfly Flight Range
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
