A-Z of butterflies

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Comma - Photograph by Jim AsherNBN Map - CommaMap courtesy of National Biodiversity Network (NBN)View full NBN Gateway profile

Comma

Widespread in England and Wales, starting to colonise Scotland, and occasionally seen in Ireland. Ragged wing edges distinguish this orange and brown butterfly. Undersides are brown with a white mark shaped like a comma. Seen in gardens and woodlands.

ResidentComma - Photograph by Jim Asher

Range expanding.

The Comma is a fascinating butterfly. The scalloped edges and cryptic colouring of the wings conceal hibernating adults amongst dead leaves, while the larvae, flecked with brown and white markings, bear close resemblance to bird droppings.

The species has a flexible life cycle, which allows it to capitalize on favourable weather conditions. However, the most remarkable feature of the Comma has been its severe decline in the twentieth century and subsequent comeback. It is now widespread in southern Britain and its range is expanding northwards.

Conservation status

  • UK BAP status: not listed
  • Butterfly Conservation priority: low
  • European threat status: not threatened

European/world range

Most of Europe, including Scandinavia, across Asia to Japan. It is also present in North Africa. European range appears to be shifting northwards.

Foodplants

The most widely used foodplant is Common Nettle (Urtica dioica). Other species used include Hop (Humulus lupulus), elms (Ulmus spp.), currants (Ribes spp.), and willows (Salix spp.).

Habitat

Open woodland and wood edges are the main habitats for both breeding and hibernation. Pre-hibernation individuals range more widely in search of nectar and rotting fruit, and are seen regularly in gardens and many other habitats.