Question Mark Question

[wormington at juno.com]

Everyone,

During the past week here at Point Pelee (Ontario), there have been
several observations of Question Mark.  This is not unusual in itself. 
The species does not overwinter in northern latitudes, including this
area, but the first immigrants typically show up in late April or early
May.

The last ones we see in fall are of the "winter" form with bright clear
orange lower wings and strong "violet" edges to the wing (almost all are
immaculate).  The first ones we see in spring are of the "summer" form
with black lower wings and generally little if any "violet" edges to the
wings (many are worn).

The ones seen this past week are rather peculiar in appearance. 
Basically they look "intermediate" between the two forms.  The lower
wings can neither be described as clear orange nor are they solid black
-- something intermediate.  And the "violet" edges to the wing are
certainly present, but not as strong as one typically sees in late fall.

Here is the question -- Has anyone in the southern United States noticed
these type individuals of late?  Does it sound familiar?  What I suspect
may have happened is that a general weather pattern may have affected the
expected appearance of the two forms, thus creating an "intermediate"
form which may or may not be unusual.

Any thoughts?

Alan Wormington
Leamington, Ontario



 
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