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Question Mark Butterfly

Question Mark Butterfly, Polygonia interrogationis

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Question Mark Butterfly, Polygonia interrogationis
Source: https://bit.ly/37kuuFY
Public Domain Image

Question Mark Butterfly Facts

Related Species

                   

  Bhutan Glory                Claudina Butterfly            Mormon Metalmark

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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

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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

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