Brushfoots: Mourning Cloak
Nymphalis antiopa

Mourning Cloak Sightings
Size: Wingspan ranges from 2.25" - 4"
Habitat: Open woods, glades
Occurrence Level: Uncommon
Flight Period: Early April, June & September
Larval Host Plant: Willow, elm hackberry

Click on any photo to enlarge

Mourning Cloak
Baltimore County, MD. May 12, 2012

The Mourning Cloak has a nice whitish yellow border and wonderful blue submarginal spots. Colors range from a very dark brown to reddish brown (see next photo)


Mourning Cloak
Howard County, MD. April 5, 2014

While walking in the woods, Mourning Cloaks generally come out to greet you. Oftentimes they will circle around you several times and even briefly land on your head!


Mourning Cloak
Howard County, MD. September 27, 2012

Feasting on sunflower sap. This sap provides an attractive nectar source late in the season.


Mourning Cloak
Allegany County, MD. May 3, 2014

And yes, Mourning Cloaks do nectar on flowers.


Mourning Cloak
Allegany County, MD. April 13, 2015


Mourning Cloak
Howard County, MD. April 11, 2015


Mourning Cloak
Howard County, MD. March 23, 2013

Can you find the Mourning Cloak?