Nymphalis antiopa
"Mourningcloak Butterfly"
Family: Nymphalidae
The Mourningcloak Butterfly acquired its name from its dark wings, which resemble the cloak that was once used to cover a casket. It is unusual among North American butterflies because it over-winters as an adult and during the winter months it may be spotted flying around on warm days. The dark maroon of the wings is bordered by a yellow margin and a row of bright blue spots. The underside is a mottled blue-gray, green, and black that allows the insect to be camouflaged on tree bark when it is resting with its wings closed. The wings are typically 2" to 3" across, and have irregular edges. As a caterpillar, the Mourningcloak butterfly is black with scattered white markings and a row of red spots. Black spines cover the body. Nymphalis antiopa caterpillars eat mostly elm, cottonwood and willow foliage and are considered pests of these plants. After it turns into a butterfly it feeds on nectar, tree sap, rotting fruit, and may also include milkweed and dogbane into its diet. The Mourningcloak’s range covers most of North America, and is usually found in woodland settings and along streams. It is active in the spring and fall, and will go into aestivation (a state of summer dormancy) if temperatures get too high. The Mourningcloak is attracted to high objects to perch upon and interestingly enough, may make a sort of clicking sound when bothered or disturbed.
Colleen Hoffman
Stephanie Zabel
Insect Biology and Diversity - Fall 2002
