Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis)

Description: A large brown anglewing, the Question Mark can be distinguished from other anglewings (i.e. all the commas), by its larger size, less ragged wing edges, and longer tails. The curved silver mark on the underside of the hindwing is broken, forming a question mark. Wingspan: 45 to 68 mm.

Maritime Distribution: Widespread throughout the Maritimes. For Atlas results click here.

Provincial Ranks: NB: S4B, S4M. NS: S3B. PEI: S3B.

Flight Period: Late May to late September, with fresh adults appearing in mid July and a partial second brood in mid August.

Host Plant: Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), elms (Ulmus spp.) and Common Hops (Humulus lupulus).

Notes: The Question Mark is a migrant species, arriving in the spring and producing local populations during the summer. This species is typically found in forested habitats. It is particularly fond of animal droppings and rotting fruit as well as thistles and knapweed. They can be found in coastal areas in late summer, perhaps migrating back south.