Mourning CloakEnlarge

Closed wingEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

ChrysalisEnlarge

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

Here is a one-of-a-kind beauty that cannot be missed. In Britain, the Mourning Cloak is referred to as the ‘Camberwell Beauty.’ This butterfly is not only gorgeous, but also amazing.

They can live up to 10 months. The first brood in late spring will actually hibernate throughout the summer, called aestivation. In the fall, they become active again before hibernating in the winter months.

The Mourning Cloak is usually one of the first butterflies to fly in colder months. They can fly when temperatures outside reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

This exceptional butterfly is a must have in all your gardens.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)

Average Wingspan: 2 1/4" - 4"

Habitat: Forests, open areas, parks, streams

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Overripe Fruit*, Tree Sap*, Common Milkweed, Dogbane*, Butterfly Bush, Zinnia
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  American Elm, Aspen Tree, Common Hackberry, Elm Tree, Paper Birch, Willow, Sugarberry*

* May not be available for purchase at your local nursery.

Note: Always check a plant's Hardiness Zone to make sure it will grow in your area. (What Is My Hardiness Zone?)

Where To Buy Plants

Butterfly Flight Range Map

Photo Credits:
Open wing - Fred Miller
Closed wing - Fred Miller
Chrysalis - Copyright Donald Gudehus