Eastern Comma (Polygonia comma)
Large butterfly endemic in eastern Canada and one of the first butterflies that can be spotted in the spring. Unlike other butterflies, this species doesn’t visit flowers. It feeds on tree sap and rotting fruits.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Eastern Comma |
| 🇫🇷 | Polygone virgule |
| 🇩🇪 | Polygonia Comma |
| 🇲🇽 | Polygonia Comma |
Taxonomy
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae |
Characteristics
| Weight | 0.1-0.2g |
| Wingspan | 5-6.5cm |
Best Locations and Seasons for Sightings
I spot this species usually early spring (April) feeding on sap of trees or along creeks formed by melting snow and ice.
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parc Angrignon | x | - | - | - |
| Parc Nature Pointe aux Prairies | x | - | - | - |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from my park visit journals.
Identification and Similar Species
To identify this species check the three dots in a row on the forewings.
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2024-12-19