Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa), picture by Ayane Inuzuka-Boyle
How long do butterflies live? For most, the answer is “not very long,” after what may have been many months as an egg, caterpillar, and chrysalis. For the Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa), however, life as a butterfly can stretch over an entire year. Mourning Cloaks spend the winter in hibernation, under bark for example, and they are often the “first butterfly of spring,” along with their close relatives, the tortoiseshells and commas. Since Mourning Cloaks are widespread in North America and Eurasia, they are probably the most oft-encountered spring butterflies in the north temperate world.
Ayane Inuzuka-Boyle, May 19, 2020, on Tan Road, Cortes Island.
Dera and Tamias Nettle, May 18, 2020.
“Dera and I saw a Mourning Cloak, Nymphalis antiopa, yesterday. We don’t have a photo, but I am positive about the identification because it landed on an alder leaf, close enough for me to see the blue spots.
We watched the Mourning Cloak flying back and forth several times along one edge of our yard. The word “patrolling” came to mind.
It flew right past Dera and we could hear its wings fluttering.”
The Cortes Island Museum & Archives is a place where people are inspired to celebrate Cortes Island – its past, present and future. We are an organization that explores important historical, social, economic and environmental themes in the fulfilment of our mission while fostering a strong sense of place and encouraging lifelong learning through dynamic exhibits and outreach programs.
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