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Gray comma

Gray comma

Polygonia progne

A species of Commas, Also known as Grey comma

Its wingspan is between 4.5 cm and 6 cm. The top of the wings is bright orange brown while the summer forms often have a dark border on the hindwing. Both winter and summer forms have few yellow spots on their wing borders. The underside of the wings have L-shaped silver markings and are charcoal gray.

General Info About Gray comma
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Attributes of Gray comma
Colors
Brown
Black
Orange
Habitat
dirt road; stream bed; hilly terrain; canyon land
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from thistles (cirsium), nectar from milkweed (asclepias), nectar from joe-pye weed (eutrochium), sap from trees, rotting fruit
Larva Food Source
Nettle leaves (urtica dioica), false nettle (boehmeria cylindrica), hops (humulus), elm leaves (ulmus), willow leaves (salix)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Gray comma is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Gray comma
It occurs in North America.
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Distribution Area of Gray comma
British Columbia, Canada, Gaspe Peninsula, Nova Scotia
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Life Cycle of Gray comma
Egg The egg stage begins the life cycle. Here, the gray comma takes shape in a small, often rounded or ovular form, usually attached to a leaf or stem. These are tiny and may have distinct colors or patterns.
Larva During the larval stage, the caterpillar gray comma grows rapidly, molting several times. It has a soft, segmented body, with a primary focus on feeding to gather energy for transformation. The creature changes significantly in size and may exhibit varied color patterns through each instar.
Pupal The pupal stage is a period of intense transformation inside a hardened case called a chrysalis. The gray comma will undergo reorganization of its tissues. During this time, the creature is mostly immobile with significant changes in structure unseen from outside.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult gray comma's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction. Variations in color and markings become evident, often fulfilling roles in camouflage or mating.
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Predators of Adult Gray comma
Birds, spiders, rodents, praying mantises, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Gray comma
Gray comma can precisely control their body temperature by basking in the sun with their wings spread to absorb heat or standing erect to minimize exposure.
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Scientific Classification of Gray comma
Tips for Finding Gray comma
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Youth Habitat of Gray comma
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Gray comma
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Floral-rich regions
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How Can You Attract Gray comma
For attracting adult gray comma, sweet substances such as rotting fruit or a sugar-water solution can be used as bait.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Gray comma
Adult gray comma are typically found during fair weather conditions, as they are less active during rainy or cold days.
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How and Where Can You Find Gray comma at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of gray comma are often laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect host plants closely, especially looking under the leaves for small, egg clusters.
Larva Caterpillars of gray comma can be found on or near host plants they feed on. Look for chewed leaves and frass (caterpillar droppings) to locate them.
Pupal Pupae of gray comma can be hidden among plant debris or in other sheltered areas close to the host plants. Search for chrysalises by carefully examining the surrounding foliage and any potential hiding spots.
Adult Adult gray comma are often seen feeding on nectar from flowers, basking in the sun, or puddling on damp ground for minerals. Look for them in gardens, meadows, and other open areas with flowering plants.
Are Gray comma harmful?
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Usually, the gray comma won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Gray comma 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 Gray comma
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Gray comma is adept at foraging for nectar, its feeding inadvertently aids in the pollination of flowers. Attracted by vivid colors and intricate shapes, it navigates from blossom to blossom. Though seeking sustenance for itself, gray comma becomes an accidental courier of pollen, enhancing plant reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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