Question Mark Butterfly

Question Mark Butterfly Facts

• Importantly, the Question Mark Butterfly remains one of the lesser-known Lepidoptera in its endemic range. Yet its distinct characteristics make it easily recognizable. It also ranks as one of the largest butterfly species within their range.
• That endemic range covers a large portion of North America, and individuals often travel extensively within that range. While it will utilize those trees available as hosts for the caterpillars, it does prefer certain species of trees.
• While many butterflies engage in long migrations, this insect does not do so. Typically, the migrations merely comprise relocating to dry and warmer areas within its range. It also migrates as individuals, as opposed to the mass migrations of related species.
• This butterfly differs also from the majority of its kind in matters relating to the life cycle. While most butterflies lay their eggs on the same plants they feed on, this species does not. The caterpillars feed on a variety of plants, yet not on the host plant.

Related Species

                   

  Bhutan Glory                Claudina Butterfly            Mormon Metalmark

Question Mark Butterfly Physical Description

Entomologists consider the distinctively marked Question Mark Butterfly to be a rather moderately large species.

One of the most noteworthy facts about this insect remains what it does not possess. Unlike most butterflies or moths, it does not display sexual dimorphism. Both genders attain a wingspan of roughly 3 in (7.6 cm) and show the same markings.

The upper side of the forewing shows a reddish-orange color and black spots. In addition, it has a hooked shape. Yet the upper side of the hindwing primarily displays a black coloring. The underside of both wings remains light brown while displaying a bright white question mark-shaped spot in the center.

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidoptera

Species: P. iterrogationis

Question Mark Butterfly, Habitat and Ecology

The beautiful Question Mark Butterfly has a rather broad habitat range for a species that does not migrate extensively. That range includes southern Canada, most of the eastern United States, and south to Arizona and northern Mexico. It principally inhabits forests with open spaces, parks, and even suburbs.

It possesses two life cycles per season, with the first flying, mating, and laying their eggs during the spring. The second cycle also repeats these activities beginning in August. The caterpillars usually hatch on one of six plant-specific plant species, yet do not feed on them.

Adults primarily feed on rotting fruit, carrion, tree sap, and dung. While these remain their favorites, they will also visit flowers such as aster and milkweed if necessary.

Beautiful and Little Known Lepidoptera

                           

 Cecropia Moth             Rosy Maple Moth                Regal Moth