Camberwell Beauty | Nymphalis antiopa PUPAE

Nymphalis antiopa, commonly known as the Mourning cloak in North America and the Camberwell Beauty in Britain, is a striking butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It is widely distributed across temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, inhabiting woodlands, riparian areas, parks, and gardens.

This butterfly is easily recognized by its dark, velvety, maroon-brown wings bordered with a creamy yellow edge and adorned with a row of iridescent blue spots. The wingspan ranges from 62 to 75 mm, making it one of the larger species in its range. Its somber coloration, reminiscent of a mourning cloak, inspired its common name.

Nymphalis antiopa has a curious life cycle. Adults overwinter in sheltered spots, such as tree hollows or beneath loose bark, and are among the first butterflies to emerge in spring. Females lay eggs in clusters on host plants, which include willows (Salix), elms (Ulmus), and poplars (Populus). The caterpillars are black with white spots and reddish spines, often forming communal webs.

Unlike many butterflies, mourning cloaks primarily feed on tree sap and decaying fruit, although they may occasionally visit flowers for nectar. Their ability to overwinter as adults and their reliance on less conventional food sources allow them to thrive in diverse environments.

Host plants - Willow; Sallow; Birch; Elm; Poplar.

Conditions - Room temperature or outside; keep caterpillars in dry and airy conditions.

Lifecycle - Single brood annually with adult butterflies living for many months.