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ODNR Division of Wildlife - Fishing - Trout Stockings
ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Question Mark

 Question Mark


Hibernators such as the question mark, comma, and mourning cloak are some of the longest lived butterflies in Ohio. The adults may live for eight months. They can often be seen flying about or sitting on the ground on sunny warm winter or early spring days.
 

Question Mark
Polygonia interrogationis

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: June, July, August, and September

• Wings: 2.2 - 3.0 inches
Description
This butterfly gets its name from the silver markings on the center of each ventral hindwing, which look like a "question mark." There is a summer form of the question mark with dark brown dorsal hindwings. This is form umbrosa. The dorsal forewings of the question mark have one more black mark than the common butterfly. It basks with its wings closed vertically most of the time, which gives the butterfly the appearance of a dried leaf.

Habitat and Habits
The question mark inhabits woods, wooded swamps, stream banks, and openings in woods. It can be found in all regions of Ohio. The fall adults hibernate over winter in hollow logs, and in earthen crevices. The males are attracted to mud puddles, tree sap, rotten fruit, animal scat, and carrion.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of the question mark feed on nettles, elms, and hackberry.