Identification
Similar to the Question Mark, but smaller, and usually less common. Occurs in similar habitats. "Comma" mark may be hard to see on hindwing. On upper forewing of Question Mark, there are four dark spots, but only three in the Comma. Ragged edge of hindwing is distinctive compared to Question Mark, where hindwing is fairly straight. Question Mark also has longer "tails". Has fall/spring and summer forms, and the former overwinters, so is seen in spring.
Photos comparing the two species:
Dorsal
Habitat
Deciduous woodlands and edges, usually near water.
Season
Typically October/November and March-April (fall form, overwinters), May-September (summer form). Fall form may emerge on warm winter days.
Food
Adults take fluids from damp sand, rotting fruit, sap (especially), not nectar.
Life Cycle
Larvae feed on elms and nettles. Two broods, fall form overwinters.
Internet References
Butterflies and Skippers of North America - species page with description, photos and life history.
Butterflies of Dallas County Texas - photographs of life cycle and pinned adult. (ventral and dorsal view)
Jeff Pippen - photographs of living adults.
