The mourning cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) is one of the longest-lived butterflies in existence – it can reach an age of up to 11 months. It hibernates as a fully developed butterfly (adult), hidden in tree hollows, under loose bark, or in woodpiles. Its dark coloration with the light-colored border makes it unmistakable. Like its relatives, the brush-footed butterflies, it produces antifreeze and wakes up on warm days, making it one of the first butterflies to lay its eggs in the spring.
[Photo montage: Reto Künzler]
0 comments