mourning cloak butterfly

insect

Also known as: Camberwell beauty, Nymphalis antiopa

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

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The mourning cloak butterfly (Nymphalis antiopa) is a blackish-brown nymphalid butterfly found in temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It is characterized by a broad yellow border on its wings. This butterfly is notable for being one of the first to appear in spring because it overwinters as an adult, hidden under loose tree bark. Its name comes from the resemblance of its dark wings to the cloth worn during mourning. The mourning cloak belongs to the brush-footed butterfly family (Nymphalidae), which are distinguished by their reduced forelegs.123

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brush-footed butterfly
The mourning cloak (Nymphalis antiopa), known as the Camberwell beauty in England, overwinter as adults. The larvae, often known as spiny elm caterpillars, are gregarious in habit and feed principally on elm, willow, and poplar foliage.
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The mourning cloak (Nymphalis antiopa), known as the Camberwell beauty in England, overwinter as adults. The larvae, often known as spiny elm caterpillars, are gregarious in habit and feed principally on elm, willow, and poplar foliage.
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