Question Mark
Polygonia interrogationis (Fabricius, 1798)
Family: Nymphalidae
Status: Occasional resident
NENHP Rank: Not listed
Range: From southern Manitoba this species is found east to the East Coast and south through Florida and into central Mexico. It is found statewide in Nebraska.
Larval Hostplant(s): Elms, Hackberries, Hops and Nettles (Ulmus, Celtis, Humulus, Urtica) species.
Broods/Flight Times:At least two flights. Up to five may occur farther south. Found in Nebraska from 28 April – 23 October.
Overwintering: As adults.
Habitat: Primarily found in the vicinity of woodlands, but also utilizes urban landscapes.
Avg. Wingspan: 2 1/4 – 3 inches
Found at:
Similar Species: Other Anglewings (Polygonia species)
Notes: As a woodland resident it is adept at utilizing non-nectar sources for nutrition. In addition to nectar it can be found on sap flows, scat, carrion and mud. Its name is derived from the silver shaped markings on its ventral hindwing. There are several “forms” or color variations of this butterfly.
Question Mark, Buffalo Co., J. Nikkila
