Male average wingspan 55mm Female 60mm.
Comma belongs to the largest family of butterflies “Nymphalidae”.
In the image you will see the white comma mark on the underside of the wing, hence the common name “comma”
To help reduce predation in all stages it has protective camouflage. When it is a small caterpillar it resembles a bird dropping, dark brown and crusty with white patches, when it is fully grown it becomes spiny and tan coloured; with a white marking along most of its back.
The Chrysalis is attractive in its own way, it resembles a upside down seahorse beautifully coloured with silver and gold marks on a pinkish brown body. When in butterfly stage, the comma can easily be mistaken for a fallen leaf when its wings are closed. It is the only butterfly in UK with jagged edged wings.
Although “commas” are not migratory they are strong fliers, widespread over most of England and Wales; although scarce in Scotland and Ireland. The species is commonly found in Europe, as far north as Norway, far south as North Africa and far East in Asia.
The female “comma” mates with multiple males, which is needed to fertilise her eggs.
After mating the females favour plants such as “hop” (Humulus lupulus), “nettles” (Urtica spp.)
The female lays her eggs singly, unlike most other butterflies that lay them in batches. When first laid the eggs are green in colour, then turn yellow. After four to five days they turn grey just before hatching.
Adults feed intensely on flowers late in summer so they are able to hibernate during the winter months. Hibernation takes place usually in well sheltered wooded areas. The following spring, the males stake out their own territories; favouring sun-light areas along a wooded edge. These areas have more of a chance of females passing by, which are pursued by the male; after mating he will then return to his favoured leaf.
