Question Mark

What it is

Polygonia interrogationis, the question mark, is a North American nymphalid butterfly. It lives in wooded areas, city parks, generally in areas with a combination of trees and open space. The color and textured appearance of the underside of its wings combine to provide camouflage that resembles a dead leaf. The adult butterfly has a wingspan of 4.5–7.6 cm (1.8–3.0 in). Its flight period is from May to September. "The silver mark on the underside of the hindwing is...

Where and when to find it

Habitat

Found across most of the US, especially in woodlands, open fields, and suburban areas near trees like elm, hackberry, and nettles.

How to find it

Look for them basking in sunny spots on leaves or tree trunks. They often rest with wings closed, mimicking a dry leaf. Search for the small white '?' mark.

Best time of day

Daytime, spring to fall. They are active on sunny days.

How it lives

What it eats

Tree sap, rotting fruit, animal droppings, and flower nectar.

What eats it

Birds, spiders, and other insect predators.

Worth knowing

• They get their name from the tiny silver '?' mark on their hindwings.
• Their caterpillars have spiky bodies, but they don't sting.
• They can overwinter as adult butterflies, just like Mourning Cloaks.
• Their camouflage is so good, you might mistake them for a dead leaf.
• They love to drink tree sap more than flower nectar.
• The 'question mark' can sometimes look like a semicolon instead!

Why it matters

Question Mark butterflies help pollinate flowers and their caterpillars are food for birds. They are an important part of forest ecosystems.