description Eastern Comma Overview
The eastern comma, Polygonia comma, is a brush-footed butterfly found in eastern North America. Adults have orange and dark brown upper wings with deeply irregular margins, while the mottled brown undersides resemble dead leaves; a small silvery comma-shaped mark on the hindwing gives the species its common name. Its caterpillars feed on plants including American elm, hops, nettles, and false nettle. Adults overwinter and may be seen during warm winter periods, making the species identifiable across more than one season.
help Eastern Comma FAQ
What is the eastern comma butterfly?
The eastern comma is the brush-footed butterfly Polygonia comma, found in eastern North America. Its upper wings are orange and dark brown, with deeply irregular margins.
Why is it called an eastern comma?
The name comes from the small silvery comma-shaped mark on the underside of its hindwing. That underside is mottled brown and can resemble a dead leaf.
How does the eastern comma camouflage itself?
When its wings are closed, the mottled brown underside and irregular wing edges help it blend into leaf litter. When open, the orange-and-brown upper wings are much more visible.
Where can eastern comma butterflies be found?
They occur across eastern North America, often in wooded or edge habitats where their caterpillar food plants grow. The species is recognizable by its jagged wing margins and comma mark.
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