Comma Butterfly Polygonia c-album
This striking diurnal flyer is a bright sunset orange, with a small white ‘comma’ shape on the underside of its wings. The characteristic ragged appearance of the wings is the main distinctive feature in identifying this invertebrate.
Conservation status in Norfolk
In 1900 the comma could only be found in southern and western areas of Britain, in the last 70 years it has recolonised Norfolk.
How to help
Leave a nettle patch for the comma caterpillar to feed on or plant hops, elm, hazel and blackcurrants.
Comma Butterfly: Karl Charters
Comma Butterfly; Brian Beckett
Information on the Comma Butterfly
How to recognise
The comma is bright orange with dark brown markings on its wings. On the wing underside there is a distinctive small, white ‘comma’ shape from which the butterfly takes its name. The most distinctive characteristic of the comma is not the colour, but the ragged leaf-like appearance of the wings.
Where to see
The comma favours woodland clearings, hedgerows and gardens, feeding on thistles, dandelions, Michaelmas daisies and buddleia and in late summer windfall fruits.
When to see
This butterfly can be seen flying from March to October.
Did you know?
Due to their fantastic camouflage it is extremely hard to find a hibernating comma butterfly.
Finding out more
www.butterfly-conservation.org.
www.butterfly-guide.co.uk
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