Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) Washington D.C.
Described as the longest-lived butterfly in North America living as long as eleven to eighteen months. Unlike most other butterfly species the Mourning Cloak spends most of its life as an adult butterfly (not larva or egg).
It is most often seen in early Spring because it survives the harsh winter months as an adult. Spring is the most likely time to see it basking in the sun and defending its territory against intruders (such as a photographer). It is not attracted to flowers, but loves to land on your head or your outstretched arm and stays there for a while.
During the hot summer months the Mourning Cloak disappears, estivating to preserve energy, hiding in tree cavities and in other sheltered places. They have only one brood. It is always a very lucky day to see a freshly minted individual during the early summer months.
Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) Washington D.C.
Described as the longest-lived butterfly in North America living as long as eleven to eighteen months. Unlike most other butterfly species the Mourning Cloak spends most of its life as an adult butterfly (not larva or egg).
It is most often seen in early Spring because it survives the harsh winter months as an adult. Spring is the most likely time to see it basking in the sun and defending its territory against intruders (such as a photographer). It is not attracted to flowers, but loves to land on your head or your outstretched arm and stays there for a while.
During the hot summer months the Mourning Cloak disappears, estivating to preserve energy, hiding in tree cavities and in other sheltered places. They have only one brood. It is always a very lucky day to see a freshly minted individual during the early summer months.