With wings up, in the ventral position, the Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis) proudly shows off why it is referred to as Question Mark. The striking white curve and dot. A question mark. Well, on this side, a question mark in reverse.

Here the same butterfly demonstrates the wings fully open, in the dorsal position.

Found in much of the eastern US and southern Canada. One of several species of butterflies that overwinter as an adult. There are a number of plants or trees that are used as hosts including American Elm, Winged Elm, Hackberry or Sugarberry, and False Nettle or Stinging Nettle.

Put a bit of fruit on your back porch and you may entice a Question Mark to come nibbling. Though they seldom go to flowers, they will feed on fermenting fruit, tree sap, dung, and carrion.

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