Comma Butterfly (Polygonia c-album): Identification, Habitat, Life Cycle and Conservation in the UK The comma butterfly is one of the UK’s most distinctive and resilient butterflies. Known for its ragged wing edges and the small white “comma” marking on the underside, this species has become a success story in British wildlife—expanding its range and adapting well to a warming climate. This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about the comma butterfly, including identification, habitat, behaviour, life cycle, and how to attract it to your garden. Key Facts at a Glance Scientific name: Polygonia c-album Wingspan: 45–50 mm Habitat: Woodland edges, gardens, hedgerows Flight period: March to October Diet: Nectar, sap, fruit, dung Status: Increasing and expanding in the UK What is a Comma Butterfly? The comma butterfly is a medium-sized species belonging to the Nymphalidae family. It gets its name from a small, white, comma-shaped marking on the underside of its hin...
An Intimate Guide to British Wildlife