Comma butterfly showing the comma by Elizabeth Dack 1/4
Comma butterfly, Strumpshaw Fen, Luke Dennis 2/4
Comma butterfly, Strumpshaw Fen, Elizabeth Dack 3/4
Comma butterfly, Swafield, Julian Thomas 4/4

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

Although the comma declined sharply during the 20th century they have made a remarkable comeback and there are now 37% more butterflies seen than in the 1970s and they are of low conservation concern. The butterfly is common in southern England and they are moving northwards

Related questions & advice

What is the difference between moths and butterflies?
What are the best plants to grow to attract butterflies to my garden?
What does a comma butterfly look like?

Details

Did you know?

Due to their fantastic camouflage it is extremely hard to find a hibernating comma butterfly.
The male butterflies are territorial and can be seen sunning themselves on the same patch of ground or vantage point to look out for intruders on their patch.

How to recognise
Where to see
When to see
How to help
Share this