The caterpillars are black with tiny white spots and spiky bristles. The caterpillars feed and grow, continuously shedding their skin through each growth stage. The caterpillars transform into a chrysalis, resulting in the transformation into butterflies with dark velvety wings trimmed in yellow and spots of blue.
One unique characteristic of these butterflies is that they are one of the few species that hibernate through the winter months! They hide away in tree bark or sheds. These butterflies typically emerge early in spring, often before flowers bloom. Due to their dark colors compared to the winter landscape, we naturally call them the Mourning Cloak!
Patience Lessons for the Gardener
As a gardener, it is easy to panic when we spot caterpillars, but not all caterpillars are bad. The Mourning Cloak is a lovely reminder that some insects serve vital roles in our ecosystems. When you do see eggs or larvae, try to leave them be. Or, if it scares you, gently move them to a conveniently located local tree.
Discover Nature’s Surprises Through Gardening
Gardening is more than plants, it is realizing the beauty we can find in all seasons, even when it appears in tiny black eggs on a leaf. Understanding the unexpected nature of our gardening adventures can be a lesson in patience, balance, and finding beauty in the little things that make gardening so unique!
