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Not Comma but a Questionmark

Posted by October 9th, 2006 at 12:00 am

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Butterflies and Skippers

what’s this moth?
I have never seen this moth / butterfly before and I am having trouble identifying it. I live in north central WV and saw it in September. Thanks!

comma wv Not Comma but a Questionmark

This is one of the Anglewing Butterflies in the genus Polygonia. We believe it is the Eastern Comma, Polygonia comma. BugGuide has some good information.

Questionmark
(10/10/2006) gentle correction
Lisa Anne and Daniel:
Every time you update your photos, I learn several new insects/critters. Thanks for doing the site. It is rare that I can spot an error, so I must thank you for including one today. The butterfly is not an Eastern Comma, but a Question Mark. On the upper surface of the forewing, there are three dots on both these species. On the Q.M., there is an “eyebrow” over the outermost dot…as can be seen in the photo. The most abundant butterflies here in southern Wisconsin (as of a couple days ago, anyway) are Clouded Sulphurs. Alas, a hard frost is headed our way in the next 48 hours or so. Maybe your photo submissions will drop precipitously along with the temps, and you can get some more sleep! Regards,
Dave Fallow
Madison, WI

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