Comma butterfly vs Question mark
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a comma butterfly from a question mark, and whether either one bites or stings.
Comma butterfly
Polygonia c-album
Question mark
Polygonia interrogationis
≠The key differences
Very similar in shape and habits but the underside mark is shaped like a question mark rather than a simple 'C'; ranges differ (Question mark is native to North America).
⚖︎Side by side
| Comma butterfly | Question mark | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Non-toxic | Non-toxic |
| Size | 45-60 mm wingspan | About 5.5-7.5 cm wingspan |
| Colours | Orange, Dark brown, Pale brown (underside dead-leaf), White (C-mark) | Orange-brown, Dark brown, Black, Grey-brown (underside), Silver (marking) |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Nymphalidae |
| Habitat | Woodland edges, hedgerows, scrub, gardens, parks and other semi-open habitats with host plants and sunny perches. | Deciduous woodlands, forest edges, riparian areas, parks and suburban gardens |
| Range | Widespread across Europe and North Africa, east through temperate Asia to Japan; distribution and abundance vary with climate and local habitat. | Found across much of North America: from southern Canada through the continental United States; more common east of the Rockies but present in parts of the west |
| Active | Mainly spring to autumn; adults fly on sunny days and hibernate over winter as adults. | Spring through fall; adults are diurnal and most active on warm, sunny days |
| Pest? | No | No |
🔍How to spot a comma butterfly
- Look for the small white C-shaped mark on the underside of the hindwing - the key field mark.
- Deeply scalloped, ragged wing margins giving an 'anglewing' outline.
- Upperwings orange-brown with darker mottling; underside cryptic brown resembling a dead leaf.
- When at rest with wings closed, silhouette and leaf-like underside help separate it from more rounded butterflies.
🔍How to spot a question mark
- Look for ragged, irregular wing margins typical of anglewings.
- Upperside orange-brown with dark borders and spots; underside brownish, leaf-like.
- Check underside of hindwing for a small silvery mark shaped like a question mark (a curved silver mark plus a small dot).
- Wingspan about 5.5-7.5 cm; flight is quick and erratic.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a comma butterfly and a question mark?
Very similar in shape and habits but the underside mark is shaped like a question mark rather than a simple 'C'; ranges differ (Question mark is native to North America).
Is a comma butterfly or a question mark more dangerous?
Comma butterfly: Non-toxic. Question mark: Non-toxic. Harmless to people. Question mark butterflies do not sting or bite people.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.