Facts about the Question Mark

1. 06

   Caterpillars of Polygonia interrogationis feed exclusively on host plants from the Urticaceae family, particularly nettles and hops, which contain compounds that make the resulting adult butterflies distasteful to predators.

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2. 05

   In spring, Question Mark butterflies emerge from hibernation and feed on tree sap and rotting fruit before mating, with two generations typically occurring per year across their North American range.

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3. 04

   The Question Mark butterfly's wingspan ranges from 1.75 to 2.6 inches, making it one of the smaller anglewings found in eastern North America.

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4. 03

   Male Question Mark butterflies perch on tree trunks and mud puddles to drink minerals and salt, a behavior called puddling that occurs most frequently during summer months in North America.

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5. 02

   Hibernating Question Mark butterflies can survive freezing temperatures by producing glycerol in their bodies, allowing them to overwinter in hollow trees and sheds across North America.

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6. 01

   Featuring distinctive wing patterns with orange and black coloration, the Question Mark butterfly was scientifically named Polygonia interrogationis by Johan Christian Fabricius in 1798.

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