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Question mark

Question mark

Polygonia interrogationis

A species of Commas, Also known as Semicolon butterfly

The question mark (Polygonia interrogationis) has a silver curved line and a dot on the underside of its wing; this symbol resembles a question mark, which is where it got its name. The rest of its body is a beautiful orange color that is built to resemble a dead leaf, giving it excellent camouflage.

General Info About Question mark
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Attributes of Question mark
Colors
Brown
Black
Orange
Habitat
wooded area; city park; tree; open space
Adult Food Sources
Aster, red clover, milkweed, thistles, butterfly bush
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Question mark is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Question mark is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Question mark feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Question mark
It has been found in southern Canada and all of the eastern United States except peninsular Florida.
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Life Cycle of Question mark
Egg The egg of question mark is a small, often spherical object, laid on a host plant. It’s at this stage that the basic structure of the insect is formed within a protective casing. From vivid colors to camouflage, each species has a distinct egg appearance.
Larva Question mark emerges as a larva, commonly known as a caterpillar. This stage is characterized by rapid growth in size. Larvae are predominantly eating machines, munching on leaves voraciously, developing distinct patterns and colors that aid in protection from predators.
Pupal The pupa stage represents a period of transformation for question mark. Encased within a chrysalis, it undergoes drastic changes: tissues break down, and the insect's body is reorganized. What emerges will be entirely different in form and function.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult question mark’s development is marked by vibrant wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on feeding and reproduction. Colors and patterns serve as mate attraction and predator deterrence.
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Adult Size of Question mark
Wingspan 7 - 7 cm
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Predators of Question mark Larvae
Ants, spiders, wasps, birds, mammals (e.g., rodents)
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Predators of Adult Question mark
Birds (e.g., avian insectivores), mammals (e.g., bats), spiders, praying mantises
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Interesting Facts About Question mark
The question mark possesses a unique defense mechanism: it excretes a liquid deterrent from its glands when threatened, deterring predators with an unpleasant taste.
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Scientific Classification of Question mark
Tips for Finding Question mark
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Youth Habitat of Question mark
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Question mark Through Different Life Stages
During its egg stage, question mark can often be found on the underside of host plant leaves. In its caterpillar stage, it's typically located on the leaves or stems of favored food plants, sometimes hidden during the day underneath leaves. The chrysalis hangs from plant stems or leaf undersides in a somewhat concealed spot, not usually in dense foliage but where there is some protective cover. Adults frequent woodland edges, moist fields, and gardens, where they seek nectar and may be spotted resting on the ground or on foliage.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Question mark
Warm, sunny days, usually late morning to mid-afternoon when temperatures are between 60-100°F (15-38°C).
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Question mark
Dry weather with little to no wind for optimal butterfly activity.
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How and Where Can You Find Question mark at Different Life Stages
Egg Question mark eggs are tiny and may be found on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect leaves of known food plants, using a magnifying lens if necessary.
Larva Question mark caterpillars are larger and consume leaves, making them easier to spot. Search for chewed leaves on host plants and look for frass (caterpillar droppings) underneath vegetation to pinpoint their location.
Pupal Question mark chrysalises are camouflaged and stationary. They can be located by carefully searching host plants, especially on the underside of branches or in hidden spots such as crevices.
Adult Question mark butterflies are active during the day. Finding them involves spotting them feeding on flowers, basking in the sun, or puddling on damp ground. Look in open, sunny areas with plenty of flowers, or use a butterfly bait trap with ripe fruits.
Are Question mark harmful?
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Usually, the question mark won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Question mark harmful to humans?

Some larvae of tortoiseshell butterflies feed on milkweed, which is a poisonous plant containing cardiac glycosides, so the larvae are poisonous. Although poisonous, these butterflies will not directly affect humans if not swallowed. Touching the larvae of certain tortoiseshell butterflies may cause a rash.
Beneficial Effects of Question mark
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Question mark is a pollinator that is particularly attracted to the colors and shapes of flowers. This species visits various blooms to consume pollen. During these feeding forays, question mark inadvertently transfers pollen from one flower to another, facilitating plant reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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