Anglewing
Guides
Nymphalis
tortoiseshells, anglewing butterflies
Nymphalis is a genus of brush-footed butterflies commonly known as tortoiseshells or anglewing butterflies. The genus name, established by Jan Krzysztof Kluk in 1780, has priority in zoological nomenclature for this group. Members are characterized by cryptic ventral wing patterns that provide camouflage during hibernation. All species in this group overwinter as adults and are restricted to the northern hemisphere. The sister group is Vanessa.
Polygonia
comma, anglewing
Polygonia is a genus of butterflies in the family Nymphalidae, commonly known as commas or anglewings. Members are recognized by a conspicuous white comma-shaped mark on the underside of each hindwing and angular notches on the outer edges of the forewings. The genus exhibits remarkable seasonal polyphenism, with distinct light and dark morphs corresponding to non-diapausing and diapausing generations. Many species hibernate as adults. The genus has been alternatively classified as a subgenus of Nymphalis.
Polygonia gracilis
Hoary Comma
Polygonia gracilis, commonly known as the Hoary Comma, is a butterfly species widespread across boreal North America. It inhabits forested and mountainous regions from Alaska and Canada southward through the Rocky Mountains to New Mexico and the Pacific coast. The species is recognized by its distinctive wing shape with ragged, notched margins. Adults are known to overwinter, allowing for early spring activity in suitable habitats.
Polygonia interrogationis
Question Mark, question mark butterfly
Polygonia interrogationis, commonly called the question mark butterfly, is a North American nymphalid butterfly recognized by the distinctive silver ?-shaped mark on the underside of its hindwing. Adults have a wingspan of 4.5–7.6 cm and exhibit cryptic coloration resembling a dead leaf when wings are closed. The species produces two generations annually, with adults active from May through September. Winter-form adults hibernate in sheltered locations and emerge in spring to reproduce.
Polygonia progne
Gray Comma, Grey Comma
Polygonia progne, the gray comma, is a North American butterfly species in the family Nymphalidae. Adults display seasonal dimorphism: summer forms have bright orange-brown upper wings with dark hindwing borders, while both forms show few yellow marginal spots. The species is notable for its L-shaped silver markings on charcoal gray undersides and its deeply notched wing margins that create an angular silhouette. It produces two generations annually, with the second generation's eggs hatching in October to overwinter as larvae.