The Comma Butterflies
| Comma Butterfly Species Gray Comma Green Comma Hoary Comma Satyr Comma Butterfly Pictures and Information |
The distinct comma mark on the the middle of the lower wing, only seen from a side view of the butterfly, explains the group's nickname.
Seven comma species are found in the United States, and all but one, the Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis), has comma in the name.
Commas fall into the perching butterfly category.
They tend to stay in one spot for lengthy periods of time, making them excellent photographic subjects, always a good trait for field identification.
General field identification begins with a side view look. Commas fold their wings for protection because it makes them looks like a leave.
The picture clearly shows a butterfly with a green band at the top of the wings and a white common mark on the middle of the wing, the signature clues of the Green Comma.
Species identification is also possible with only a top view picture, although sometimes the upper wing patterns tend to look similar.
Distinguishing among species, especially in the West, where many species share overlapping territory, can be difficult. Recognizing that common species normally show two different forms, a darker summer form and lighter winter form, adds an additional identification challenge.
The four species listed in the box on the right are identified primarily from top views, comparing both the wing borders and the number and shape of the black marks on the upper and lower wings.
The Gray Comma and Green Comma, for example are differentiated by the presence or absence of a black spot on the middle portion of the lower wing. Please click on a link to learn more.
© 2003-2009 Patricia A. Michaels. All rights reserved.