Mourning Cloak

The mourning cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) is a very distinctive butterfly. Just like any other butterfly, it closes its wings when at rest, and opens up the wings when in action. The wings very dark with golden or yellowish edges that looks like a cloak. Mourning cloaks are unique in overwintering as adults rather than spending winter as eggs, larvae, or pupae. The adults live for 8-12 months, much longer than most butterflies, which tend to live for just 2-6 weeks as adults.